4 Arrested in Kampala with over 120 IPhones and IPads
KAMPALA — A targeted operation officers at Katwe Police Station has dismantled a major stolen phone syndicate, leading to the recovery of 120 suspected stolen iPhones, high-tech phone maintenance equipment, and the arrest of four suspects.
The breakthrough follows an incident on July 16, 2026, when a police officer on duty at Top City Plaza in Kisenyi Cell, Kampala, had his mobile phone stolen while resting inside a vehicle.
The Investigation Unravels
Police intelligence led to the arrest of the primary suspect, Mugabi Richard, on July 18 at approximately 3:00 a.m. at his residence in Kakajo, Kisenyi Cell. Upon interrogation, Mugabi confessed to taking the officer’s phone and handing it over to an accomplice, who then sold the device for UGX 900,000.
The buyer was identified as Mugerwa Juma, the owner of a mobile phone retail outlet located at Cooper Complex in central Kampala.
Raid at Cooper Complex
After successfully recovering the officer’s stolen phone, police raided Mugerwa’s shop on July 21, 2026. The search yielded a sophisticated setup suspected of being used to alter and dismantle stolen electronics.
Officers seized several items during the shop search:
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7 functioning iPhones
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5 iPads
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3 laptops
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Phone resetting machines
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One specialized repair microscope
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A large quantity of iPhone spare parts
Mugerwa Juma was taken into custody on the spot. A subsequent search of his motor vehicle produced the bulk of the haul: 120 suspected stolen iPhones, spanning high-end models such as the flagship iPhone 17 Pro Max down to earlier generations.
The Criminal Network
Preliminary investigations reveal that Mugerwa operated an illicit supply chain, purchasing stolen devices directly from street snatchers operating across Kampala and neardistricts. The gadgets were then reset, resold, or stripped down for spare parts.
Four individuals are currently in custody aiding investigations:
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Mugabi Richard
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Mugerwa Juma
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Mwesigwa Frank
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Mutesi Sumaya
Police confirm that investigations remain active to track down additional accomplices and fully uncover the scope of the criminal network.
Call to the Public
Katwe Police Station has called upon members of the public who have recently lost iPhones in Kampala or surrounding areas to report to the station. Victims are advised to bring proof of purchase or ownership details (such as purchase receipts, original boxes, or serial numbers) to assist in identifying their property.