Police officer among six arrested in connection to theft of 32 cars

Authorities in Uganda have arrested six people, including a police officer, in connection to the spate of theft of vehicles in Kayunga District.

Reports indicate that at least 32 vehicles have been stolen in the area since May last year, with the thieves targeting tipper lorry trucks and saloon cars (Premio, Spacio and other Toyota brands).

The arrest - conducted by a team of police and Flying Squad members - followed protests by drivers who stormed Kayunga Central Police Station last week, demanding for action from police.

Drivers' protests

The drivers are accusing a section of police officers of being in cahoots with car robbers.

“I am going to investigate this claim and if any police officer is found to be involved in this crime, he/she will be arrested and prosecuted,” Kayunga District Police Commander Rosetta Sikahwa said during a meeting with the drivers.

Few days after the meeting, a police officer attached to Kayunga Police Station and five others were arrested.

"The police officer and five suspects were found to have links with motor vehicle robbers in the district. They have all been handed over to the Flying Squad and transferred to Kampala for further investigations," Sikahwa told Daily Monitor.