Incidents of pickpocketing, street robberies, and petty crimes dominated reports during the New Year celebrations in the Kampala Metropolitan Area, covering Kampala City, Wakiso, and Mukono districts.

Police confirmed that 51 suspects were arrested during the festivities, with 31 apprehended for pickpocketing at crowded events, highlighting concerns over safety during mass gatherings.

Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala revealed that the Old Kampala Police Division, which includes areas such as Lubiri and Mengo, recorded the highest number of arrests. “Generally, the New Year celebrations were peaceful, but we registered a few incidents involving petty crimes. Old Kampala recorded the highest number of arrests on New Year’s night,” Kawala said.

Most arrests in Old Kampala targeted revellers at Lubiri Grounds, where undercover officers deployed in the crowd quickly identified and apprehended suspected pickpockets. The suspects were taken to Old Kampala Police cells for further processing.

In Nansana, police arrested 10 individuals found with machetes and suspected narcotics, following intelligence reports suggesting they planned attacks on people returning from New Year celebrations.

Beyond theft and robbery, police are investigating two separate arson incidents reported in the early hours of New Year’s Day. In Wakiso District, a house in Kireka-Bira village, Nakabugo Parish, Wakiso Sub-county was set on fire. Homeowner Mercy Natukunda said she and her husband had attended overnight prayers on December 31, 2025, and were alerted by neighbours around 4:00 a.m. that their home was ablaze.

Deputy Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire said the fire destroyed several household items, including mattresses, clothing, and suitcases. “A neighbour reported seeing a woman leaving the scene shortly after the fire started. The suspect is believed to be known to the complainant. Police visited and documented the scene, recorded witness statements, and arrested a suspect to assist with investigations,” Owoyesigyire said.

In Mukono District, Ritah Namutebi, a resident of Kitega village, returned home after weeks away to find her house completely destroyed by fire. “I had previously received threats from a man known to me following domestic disagreements. I strongly suspect he is responsible for setting my house on fire. I want the police to trace him wherever he is hiding,” Namutebi said.

Owoyesigyire confirmed that police have documented the scene, collected evidence, and recorded witness statements. Both the Natukunda and Namutebi cases are being treated as arson, with investigations ongoing.

Police also reported a hit-and-run accident in Kijjabijo, Gayaza, Wakiso District, which claimed the life of a pedal cyclist. Kawala stated that efforts to identify the driver are ongoing. Additionally, several people were arrested for fighting, causing public nuisance, and disorderly conduct at entrances to concerts and places of worship. All suspects are expected to be screened and arraigned in court early next week.

The spike in pickpocketing, street robberies, and arson during the New Year celebrations has prompted the Kampala Metropolitan Police to increase security measures for upcoming public events, emphasizing safety for residents and visitors in crowded areas.