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Joint security operation dismantles criminal network in Gulu City

30 March 2026, 3:29 pm

ASP David Ongom Mudong, the Aswa West Regional Police spokesperson, addressing the media from his office.

By Gift Okello

On 24 March 2026, a coordinated, intelligence-led operation by the Uganda Police Force and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces disrupted multiple criminal cells across Gulu City.

The crackdown targeted Pece Prisons, Cell-Kyenjere, and surrounding neighbourhoods in a bid to dismantle networks linked to a recent crime wave. Several suspects, identified as Ochola Desmond, Okot Emma, and an individual known as “24”, are currently detained at Gulu City East Policing Division.

During the raid, ASP David Ongom Mudong, the Aswa West police spokesperson, confirmed the recovery of several exhibits, including 10 rounds of ammunition, a pair of police uniforms, four pangas, four knives, housebreaking tools, four large padlocks, multiple keys, mattresses, and two television sets.

ASP David Ongom Mudong on how the operation was conducted on 24 March 2026.
Police uniforms recovered during the operation.

Authorities have preferred charges ranging from illegal possession of ammunition and government stores to burglary and theft. Peter Banya, the Gulu City Resident City Commissioner, emphasised that operations will continue to eliminate “Aguu” gangs.

Deputy Resident City Commissioner in charge of Laroo-Pece Division, Gulu City, speaking on the operation.
Some of the tools discovered by the police believed to have been used by the suspects to terrorise the community.

This follows a mid-February operation in which 90 suspected gang members were arrested. While residents, including Robert Okema, have welcomed the crackdown, they are urging security agencies to sustain enforcement and ensure successful prosecutions to restore lasting peace.

Robert Okema, a resident of Gulu City, welcomed and appreciated the crackdown by the security agencies.