KAMPALA — Police have arrested three people and recovered an iPhone 11 allegedly stolen from a woman during musician King Saha’s show in Kololo last month.
The arrests were made by detectives from Nateete Police Division under Kampala Metropolitan Police South following the circulation of a video on social media showing a woman crying after reportedly losing her mobile phone during the August 15 event.
According to police, intelligence-led inquiries into the incident led to the arrest of Lubwama Abud, alias Mafia, who allegedly told investigators that he had stolen the iPhone 11 before selling it to Ssentongo Joseph.
Detectives subsequently arrested Mr Ssentongo in Nateete Central A Zone and recovered the phone from him.
Police said a pink phone cover, which was reportedly on the iPhone when it was stolen, was also recovered from Mr Ssentongo’s bag.
Further investigations allegedly established that Mr Ssentongo had taken the phone to Sserunjogi Kasim, who assisted in unlocking the device at Kalungi Mall so that it could be used.
The three suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue.
ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the deputy Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, said detectives were pursuing additional suspects believed to have been involved in the theft and the unlocking of the phone.
Police are also working to identify and trace the rightful owner of the recovered iPhone and establish where the original theft case was reported for further management.
The recovery follows growing concerns over theft of mobile phones and other valuables at crowded entertainment events, where large gatherings can provide opportunities for criminals to target patrons.
Police have previously urged members of the public attending concerts and other large events to remain vigilant and safeguard their phones and other valuables.
In this case, investigators are expected to establish the full chain of events from the alleged theft at the Kololo show to the recovery of the phone and identify all people who may have participated in the offence.
The suspects remain in custody pending completion of investigations and further legal action.
They are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.
