Two Suspected Criminal Gang Members Arrested in Busia with 180 ID Cards and Tear Gas Canister
Busia police arrest two suspects linked to a criminal gang found with 180 National ID cards, tear gas canister, and burglary tools during crackdown on crime.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 20, 2026
2 min read
In a targeted operation against criminal networks in Busia, detectives from the Teso South DCI unit apprehended two men suspected of involvement in a criminal gang. The suspects, identified as Francis Okoside (alias Franco) and Douglas Barasa (alias Dady Okangu), were found in possession of 180 National Identification cards bearing various names.
The arrest followed a search of Okoside's residence, conducted in the presence of his family, where authorities recovered the large cache of ID cards. Investigators are probing how the suspects acquired the documents and whether they were intended for use in illegal activities.
Additional Items Seized
- A tear gas canister
- A heavy metal rod
- Eight metal bars suspected to be burglary tools
- Two pairs of military boots
- Five mobile phones
All recovered items have been secured as evidence. The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue ahead of their arraignment. Authorities are actively pursuing further leads to uncover the full extent of the suspects' criminal operations and to identify other members of the gang.
Crackdown on Criminal Gangs Intensifies
This arrest comes amid a nationwide police campaign to dismantle criminal gangs. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja recently directed regional commanders to intensify efforts against goons and criminal groups, warning that failure to act would result in loss of command.
