Violent Attacks by Flying Kick Gang Linked to Repeat Offenders, Police Say
Kampala’s police have linked the recent surge in violent attacks, characterized by assailants using flying kicks to knock down victims, to repeat offenders and ex-convicts. According to police spokesperson Fred Enanga, many of the suspects involved in these assaults are individuals previously released from prison.
The assailants, who often target unsuspecting individuals, have been caught on CCTV cameras stalking and attacking their victims with flying kicks aimed at the head. Victims, after being knocked to the ground, are further assaulted, sometimes with pavers, before the criminals rob them. In other cases, criminals riding on boda bodas have used pavers to hit victims’ heads, furthering their robbery.
These incidents have sparked concern among the public, with many citizens accusing the police of being complacent in addressing the issue. However, Enanga revealed that police have been actively apprehending and remanding these criminals, but many of them continue their criminal activities after being released from jail.
Repeat Offenders Behind Violent Incidents
Enanga explained that a large number of those involved in these attacks were former convicts who had been previously arrested, charged, and released on bail. After completing their sentences, they returned to their criminal activities, often reuniting with others who had similar criminal backgrounds.
In some cases, juveniles aged 12 to 18 have been involved. Because of their age, these individuals are remanded to juvenile facilities instead of prisons. After serving their time, they are often released, only to return to terrorize the public once again.
Influence of Movies and Kungfu Training
Police have identified another worrying trend among the attackers: the influence of movies, particularly heist films, which seem to inspire many of the perpetrators. Enanga noted that some individuals had taken up Kungfu training at private gyms across Kampala’s suburbs to perfect their combat skills, using the knowledge gained to carry out their attacks.
Crackdown on Violent Gangs
Despite the challenges, police have made significant progress in arresting members of these violent gangs. In the past two months, 34 suspects have been arrested by Crime Intelligence and Flying Squad units. Enanga highlighted a few high-profile incidents, including an attack captured on CCTV along Wavamuno Road in Munyonyo, an assault on an Ethiopian national traveling on a boda boda, and another attack along Ben Kiwanuka Street. Many of those arrested have already been brought before the courts.
While acknowledging public criticism, Enanga emphasized that addressing crime is a collective responsibility, and assured Ugandans and visitors that police operations targeting these violent gangs would continue to ensure the safety of the community.
