Security agencies in Arua City have arrested 93 male suspects in a coordinated intelligence-led operation targeting criminal hideouts in the central business area.

The joint night operation, conducted on 27th April 2026 at around 10:00pm, was carried out by the Police in collaboration with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces under the leadership of the Officer in Charge of Operations in the Arua Central Business Division.

According to security officials, the swoop targeted sports betting centres along Transport Road in Barzar Ward and other identified locations within Arua City, which are believed to be frequented by suspects linked to a series of thefts and robberies in the city centre.

The suspects were reportedly found in possession of illegal narcotic substances and dangerous weapons, among other offences that are still under investigation. Police say case files are being prepared for sanctioning before the suspects are arraigned in court.

Speaking about the operation, SSP Josephine Angucia, the Police Public Relations Officer for West Nile, confirmed the arrests and noted that screening was conducted with the involvement of local leaders. She said about half of the suspects were formally charged, while others were cautioned and released.

Authorities linked the operation to growing public concern over insecurity in the city, alleging that some of the arrested individuals use betting centres as meeting points to plan criminal activities.

The Police, working alongside the Uganda Police Force, emphasized that similar intelligence-led operations will continue in Arua City until normalcy and public safety are fully restored.