Masaka residents can now breathe a sigh of relief following the arrest of two notorious armed robbers who had been terrorizing the region.
The suspects, identified as Bruno Juuko and Alex Lule, were apprehended last night by the Flying Squad Unit (FSU) team under Police’s Crime Intelligence based in Masaka after a high-stakes pursuit.
Crime Intelligence is led by Maj Gen Christopher Damulira.
The two had been linked to a string of violent robberies across Masaka, with Police confirming at least five major incidents so far.
According to security sources, the gang was targeting coffee dealers and local traders, instilling fear in communities and disrupting economic activities.
Authorities revealed that the suspects were armed with three high-powered rifles, including one gun stolen from the Military Police and two others taken from the Counter Terrorism Police unit.
The recovery of these firearms marks a significant breakthrough for security forces, given the danger posed by such weapons in the hands of criminals.
All three guns were successfully recovered during the arrest operation, ensuring that they are no longer a threat to public safety. The police have since launched a wider investigation to trace any accomplices and determine how the suspects acquired the military-grade weapons.
“The arrest of these suspects and recovery of the firearms sends a clear message to other criminal elements that we are watching and will not relent in ensuring peace in the region,” a senior officer attached to the operation said.
Local leaders and businesspeople, particularly in the coffee trade, have welcomed the development, expressing hope that normalcy will return and security will be restored in the area.
Further charges are expected to be filed as investigations continue.
