Police in Kampala have arrested 12 teenagers after a video circulated on social media showing a group assaulting another teenager in Makindye Division.

The suspects, aged between 14 and 17, were arrested following public concern over the footage, which showed the victim being repeatedly punched.

Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala said the arrests were carried out on 17 and 18 September, with the final suspects detained at about 2am during an operation in Makindye.

The teenagers, who are believed to be students, are being held at Kabalagala Police Station as investigations continue.

Victim receiving treatment

Police said the assault happened on 13 September in Nakibinge Zone, Kibuli Parish, Makindye Division.

The victim was taken to hospital for treatment before being discharged.

Ms Kawala said the teenager was now staying with his mother, where he was continuing to receive medical care.

Police have not disclosed what is believed to have triggered the assault.

Investigators are working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and the role allegedly played by each of the 12 suspects.

Police condemn violence

Ms Kawala said police strongly condemned acts of violence, particularly those involving children.

“The Uganda Police Force strongly condemns acts of violence, particularly those involving minors, and reiterates its commitment to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding the safety and dignity of all persons, and ensuring that individuals found to have engaged in unlawful conduct are dealt with in accordance with the law and applicable procedures governing juvenile offenders,” she said.

The suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue.

Because all 12 suspects are minors, police said the case will be handled under procedures governing juvenile offenders.