

By Aggrey Twesigye
Uganda Police Force in Mbarara City has arrested a suspect linked to a series of motor vehicle number plate thefts.
The suspect, Quaraish Lukyamuzi, a resident of Rakai District, was arrested on April 24, 2026, from a lodge in Katete Ward where he was reportedly coordinating the thefts.
According to police, the suspect targeted parked vehicles in Katete and Kakoba wards, removing number plates at night and later demanding between UGX 100,000 and 200,000 from owners for their return.
He later led officers to several hideouts where multiple stolen number plates were recovered, while others had already been reclaimed by their rightful owners.
The suspect is currently detained at Mbarara Central Police Station as investigations continue.
Rwizi Region Police spokesperson Samson Kasasira urged the public to remain vigilant.
