The police flying squad in the Albertine region has shot and critically injured a suspected mobile money robber during an operation in Hoima city.
The suspect, identified as Hamis Keya, 42, a resident of Wakiso district, is accused of masterminding a series of violent robberies targeting mobile money agents in Wakiso, Kampala, Luwero, Masindi and Hoima.
Police allege that Keya and his accomplices, who are still at large, have been targeting mobile money operators, particularly while transporting cash, using weapons including guns and machetes.
URN has learned that detectives attached to Masulita police station in Wakiso launched a manhunt for the suspect after he was linked to the robbery of a mobile money agent of an unspecified sum of money.
He reportedly fled the scene, prompting investigators to track his movements. On Saturday, Keya was reportedly spotted along the Kampala–Hoima road while riding a Bajaj motorcycle, registration number, UMA 633GS.
Police in Wakiso coordinated with their counterparts in Hoima city to mount an operation that led to his interception near Hoima School of Nursing and Midwifery. According to police, the suspect attempted to flee, forcing Flying Squad operatives to shoot him in the right thigh before placing him under arrest.
He was subsequently taken to Hoima regional referral hospital, where he is receiving treatment under tight security. Julius Hakiza, the Albertine regional police spokesperson, said arrangements were underway to transfer the suspect to Wakiso district, where he allegedly committed the latest offence, for further interrogation.
Hakiza added that detectives recovered the motorcycle the suspect was riding, which is believed to have been stolen. The motorcycle has since been impounded and is being held at Hoima City Central police station as an exhibit.
