Design and Implementation of a GPS-GSM based Real-Time Vehicle Theft Tracking System for Urban Security in Uganda

Vehicle theft remains a persistent security challenge in urban centers across developing regions, particularly in Uganda, where rapid urbanization and limited law enforcement resources have led to a surge in motor vehicle-related crimes. In response, this paper presents the design, development, and testing of a GPS-GSM-based real-time vehicle theft tracking and mitigation system tailored for deployment in Ugandan cities. The proposed solution integrates Global Positioning System (GPS) modules with Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) technology and microcontroller-based embedded systems to create a location-aware, remotely accessible vehicle monitoring platform. Unlike conventional vehicle tracking systems that rely heavily on internet connectivity and centralized cloud infrastructure, this system utilizes SMS-based data transmission, ensuring reliability in environments with intermittent or non-existent data services. Core system components include the Neo-6M GPS receiver, SIM800L GSM transceiver, and an Arduino Uno microcontroller, all interfaced to support a robust detection and alert framework. Unauthorized vehicle access events trigger immediate alerts via SMS to registered stakeholders, complete with real-time geospatial coordinates. An optional engine immobilization mechanism, controlled via SMS command, further enhances the system’s deterrent capabilities. Field implementation and testing were conducted in various urban scenarios across Kampala, Uganda, to evaluate signal reliability, message latency, and GPS positional accuracy under real-world constraints such as high-rise interference, power interruptions, and GSM congestion. The results indicated an average GPS accuracy of 4–6 meters and SMS delivery latency of less than 4 seconds under optimal signal conditions. The system exhibited over 95% reliability in maintaining GPS lock and GSM responsiveness throughout multiple test cycles. Furthermore, the modular architecture allows for straightforward integration with additional IoT functionalities such as RFID-based authentication, LoRa-based range expansion, and cloud- based forensic recordkeeping. This research contributes to the growing body of work in ICT and IoT for public safety, offering a cost-effective, scalable, and locally viable solution to vehicular theft in low-resource settings. Its emphasis on decentralized communication, real-time alerts, and component accessibility positions it as a practical model for smart city security frameworks in developing nations.