Breakdown of the Uganda Police Force Annual Crime Report 2024

The Uganda Police Force Annual Crime Report for 2024 highlights a 4.1% decrease in overall crime compared to 2023. Reported cases dropped from 228,074 in 2023 to 218,715 in 2024. While this reduction suggests improvements in law enforcement and crime prevention efforts, a significant number of cases remain unresolved.

Out of the reported crimes, 81,750 cases were taken to court, resulting in 26,328 convictions, indicating progress in the justice system. However, 43,579 cases are still pending, highlighting the need for faster case processing. Additionally, the number of arrests stood at 88,985, demonstrating that police investigations have successfully identified and charged many suspects.

The report includes a crime rate indicator, revealing that 476 out of every 100,000 people in Uganda were victims of crime in 2024. Although crime has decreased, it remains a significant concern.

Crime Trends & Distribution

Crime is not evenly distributed across Uganda. Some areas experience higher crime rates due to population density, economic conditions, and social factors. The report identifies Kampala Metropolitan, Busoga, and Greater Masaka as crime hotspots, which reported the highest numbers of cases.

Crime rates were not consistent throughout the year, with peaks occurring in February, April, and September. These fluctuations may be attributed to seasonal factors, economic challenges, or social events that tend to trigger criminal activities.

The most commonly reported offenses in 2024 were:

• Theft (61,529 cases): This includes the theft of mobile phones, motorcycles, vehicles, and livestock. Theft remains the most widespread crime due to its financial impact and ease of execution.
• Assault (29,580 cases): Physical violence, including fights and domestic disputes, continues to be prevalent.
• Domestic violence (14,073 cases): This figure highlights ongoing issues related to gender-based violence and family conflicts.
• Sex-related offenses (14,425 cases): This category encompasses defilement, rape, and other sexual crimes, which remain a serious concern.
• Break-ins (13,511 cases): Many households and businesses fell victim to burglaries and forced entries.

The persistence of these crimes suggests that, while law enforcement is making progress, certain social and economic issues continue to drive criminal behavior.

Homicides & Violent Crimes

Homicide cases continue to pose a challenge in Uganda, with various forms of murder reported, including:

• Murder by assault: Victims die due to physical beatings.
• Murder as a result of mob justice: A disturbing trend where communities take the law into their own hands.
• Murder by strangulation: Often linked to personal revenge or domestic conflicts.
• Murder by shooting: Involving organized crime or illegal firearm possession.
• Murder resulting from domestic violence: Conflicts within families sometimes lead to tragic deaths, particularly among women and children.

The report indicates that the police are actively investigating these cases; however, community involvement is crucial in preventing such crimes.

Sexual & Child-Related Crimes

The numbers of sex-related crimes, particularly defilement (child sexual abuse) and rape, remain alarmingly high. While some cases have resulted in convictions, many others are either under investigation or pending trial.

Child-related crimes, including neglect, abandonment, and abuse, continue to be serious issues, suggesting the need for stronger child protection measures, increased public awareness, and improved legal enforcement.

Economic & Corruption Crimes

Economic crimes, such as bank fraud, land fraud, and corruption, were also highlighted in the report. These crimes undermine trust in institutions and hinder economic development. The report indicates that corporate fraud and land-related scams were among the most commonly reported offenses.

Corruption remains a major issue affecting both public and private institutions. Despite ongoing efforts to combat corruption, cases continue to surface, indicating the need for stronger anti-corruption laws and enforcement mechanisms.

Cybercrime & Media Offenses

With the increase in internet use, cybercrimes are on the rise. These include:

• Online fraud: Scammers deceive people into misleading financial transactions.
• Hacking: Unauthorized access to personal and corporate data.
• Fake news and misinformation: Manipulation of online content for political or financial gain.

Law enforcement is focusing on digital surveillance and cybersecurity measures to combat these growing threats.

Traffic and Road Safety

While crime rates have declined, road safety deteriorated in 2024. The report highlights the following findings:

• Road traffic crashes increased by 6.4%, rising from 23,608 in 2023 to 25,107 in 2024.
• Fatal crashes rose by 6.1%, resulting in 4,434 recorded deaths.
• Serious crashes, which lead to severe injuries, increased by 5.2%.

The primary causes of road accidents included reckless driving, speeding, and pedestrian negligence, with the Kampala Metropolitan area and major highways recording the highest number of fatalities. To address this issue, the government is implementing stricter traffic laws, enhancing road safety education, and increasing police patrols.

Fire and Rescue Services

The report indicates a 13.8% rise in fire incidents, totaling 1,280 fires reported in 2024. A major concern is that:

• 67% of fires occurred between 6 AM and 12 PM, primarily in homes and makeshift structures.
• Fires in schools increased by 9%, raising concerns about fire safety in educational institutions.

The police and fire departments are focused on improving response times and conducting awareness campaigns on fire prevention.

Interpol and International Crimes

Uganda’s Interpol and international relations division has addressed cross-border crimes, including:

• Drug trafficking, where illegal substances are smuggled through the country.
• Motor vehicle theft, with stolen vehicles being moved across borders.
• Extradition of wanted criminals, cooperating with international agencies to track fugitives.

Efforts are underway to enhance Uganda’s presence in global crime prevention networks.

Community Policing and Future Strategies

A significant policing reform in 2024 was the implementation of the Sub-County Policing Model, which assigns 18 police officers to each sub-county. This strategy aims to bring police services closer to communities, enhance crime prevention, and ensure quicker response times. Other key strategies for 2025 and beyond include:

• Improving police welfare by providing better housing, healthcare, and training for officers.
• Investing in technology, which involves expanding the use of CCTV surveillance, biometric identification, and digital crime databases.
• Strengthening partnerships through collaboration between police, local councils, and community leaders to prevent crime.

The Annual Crime Report for 2024 indicates a slight decrease in crime rates, but challenges persist. Law enforcement agencies are focusing on improving crime prevention strategies, expediting justice processing, and enhancing community engagement. However, pressing issues such as domestic violence, sex-related crimes, corruption, and road safety demand urgent action.