Police have carried out a joint security operation against scrap dealers suspected of selling stolen copper wires from electrical installations and masts.
The operation that involved the Criminal Investigations Directorate –CID, Field Force Police –FFP, Crime Intelligence –CI led to the apprehension of 30 scrap dealers found selling suspected stolen copper wires.
The security organs invaded shops at Kisenyi, Nakitende Village, Shamba Complex, Musajja Alumbwa, Owino Complex, New Park Mall, Usafi Market, Mwanga II Road, and Muzaana Road.
Police Spokesperson, Fred Enanga, says this action was driven by the increasing cases of vandalism from Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited –UETCL, National Water and Sewage Cooperation –NWSC, Uganda Telecomm Company –UTL Uganda National Roads Authority –UNRA and contractors at Karuma hydro-power dam.
Some of the suspects, according to UETCL drain off fuel from transformers at substations, sending people into power blackouts for hours.
He said they targeted particular areas after intelligence reports indicated that these areas accommodate people involved in the vandalism.
Police believe detaining the dealers will displace the group behind the vandalism for lack of market for the stolen materials.
The police mouthpiece says suspects found with wanting documents for the merchandise will be forwarded to the courts of law.
This operation comes a fortnight after Uganda People’s Defense Force –UPDF, Military Police, CI, CID, and FFU detained at least 350 people found dealing in suspected stolen motorcycles, motor vehicles, and phones.
