Police are investigating a series of motor vehicle number plate thefts reported in January 2026 within the Maganjo policing area, in a scheme that targeted motorists and demanded money for the return of the stolen plates, Deputy police spokesperson, Kampala metropolitan, Luke Owoyesigire said.

According to police reports, victims reported that unknown individuals removed number plates from vehicles and left behind a telephone contact. Motorists were instructed to call the number and pay money in order to recover their stolen vehicle number plates.

On March 12, 2026 at about 2:00am, police foot patrol teams operating in the area arrested a suspect identified as Mugerwa Umaru, 29, along Mau Jinja–Kaloli Road in Maganjo B. The arrest followed ongoing patrol operations aimed at addressing the rising cases of number plate theft reported in the community.

Police said the suspect was found in possession of suspected breaking implements, papers bearing the telephone contact believed to have been used in the extortion scheme, and a SIM card linked to the same number that victims had reportedly been instructed to call.

During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted involvement in the theft of vehicle number plates. He later led police officers to several locations where the stolen plates had been hidden.

A total of 17 stolen vehicle number plates were recovered from bushes in Jinja Kaloli and Kilokole Zone in Kawempe Division. Police believe the recovered plates may be connected to multiple cases that had earlier been reported by motorists in the Maganjo policing area.

The suspect is currently in police custody as investigations continue to determine whether other individuals may have been involved in the operation.

Police have advised motorists in Kampala and surrounding areas to remain vigilant and report suspicious individuals or incidents. 

Security agencies say efforts are ongoing to dismantle criminal groups involved in vehicle-related thefts and to improve safety for motorists.