On November 2, 2026, Kampala Metropolitan Police conducted a search and cordon operation in Kibuli Parish, Makindye Division, targeting individuals suspected of draining fuel from motor vehicles and selling it to motorists. The operation, led by Kabalagala Division Police Commander SP Francis Okongo, resulted in the arrest of 14 suspects. According to ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Public Relations Officer, the arrests followed reports exposing an alleged racket in which fuel was siphoned from government vehicles at premises in Kibuli and sold to private buyers.
During the operation, police recovered 192 jerrycans containing suspected fuel residues, 16 containers of suspected fuel, and 24 fuel-siphoning tubes. Officers also impounded two motorcycles and three motor vehicles. The recovered exhibits and vehicles were taken to the police station, while samples of the suspected fuel were collected for forensic analysis to establish their composition and determine whether they had been contaminated. The police suspect that the alleged practice extended beyond government vehicles to those belonging to private institutions, with drivers and other individuals facilitating the diversion of fuel.
Local media reports indicate that the premises where the fuel was allegedly drained and sold was a washing bay. The fuel was reportedly sold to customers at about Shs6,000 per litre. A fuel tanker suspected to have been used to collect and transport the siphoned petroleum products was also impounded. According to media reports, one suspect was arrested while bringing a vehicle belonging to his employer to the premises to have its fuel siphoned.
The 14 suspects are being investigated for unlawful dealing in petroleum products. Detectives are seeking to establish the source of the fuel and identify other people involved in the alleged trade. Police have also raised concerns about the safety risks associated with storing large quantities of fuel in residential neighbourhoods, warning that the highly flammable products could cause fires and endanger residents.
The operation was triggered by intelligence gathered from media reports. Police are working to establish the extent of the alleged fuel theft racket and identify all individuals involved. The investigation is ongoing, with police expected to provide further updates as more information becomes available.
The issue of fuel theft from government and private vehicles has raised concerns about the security and management of fuel supplies in Uganda. The police operation in Kibuli is part of a broader effort to crack down on fuel theft and related crimes. Further operations are likely as police continue to investigate and gather intelligence on fuel theft rackets.
The suspects are currently in police custody, and police are working to build a case against them. The outcome of the investigation and any potential charges or prosecutions will be closely watched. The case highlights the need for vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the public to prevent and combat fuel theft and other related crimes.
Key points
- 14 suspects were arrested in Kibuli, Kampala, for allegedly siphoning and selling fuel from government and private vehicles.
- Police recovered 192 jerrycans of suspected fuel residues, 16 containers of suspected fuel, and 24 fuel-siphoning tubes during the operation.
- The suspects are being investigated for unlawful dealing in petroleum products, with police seeking to establish the source of the fuel and identify other individuals involved.
