KAMPALA, Uganda — Police in Kampala have arrested a private security guard accused of stealing gold and cash worth more than Shs500 million in a high-value theft case that has raised concerns over insider crime in Uganda’s commercial sector.
The suspect, identified as Akena Justine, a guard attached to Magnum Security Company, was arrested on April 15, 2026, in Gaspa Village, Bweyale Town Council, after reportedly going into hiding for several days.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, the alleged theft occurred on April 10 at premises belonging to Goldex Uganda Limited along Mawanda Road, where the suspect had been deployed.
“It is alleged that Akena stole a bag containing UGX 29 million and 900 grams of gold valued at approximately UGX 500 million from a motor vehicle belonging to one Katuramu Maggie. At the time of the incident, he had been deployed to guard the premises of Goldex Uganda Limited, located along Mawanda Road,” Owoyesigyire said.
Police said the suspect allegedly locked the premises after the incident and fled, prompting a manhunt that led investigators to Bweyale, where he is believed to have relocated.
“On 15th April 2026 at about 2230 hours, the suspect was successfully arrested from Gaspa Village in Bweyale Town Council. Upon interrogation, he admitted to committing the offence,” said Owoyesigyire.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect may have used part of the stolen cash to establish a retail shop in the area, from where he was eventually apprehended.
“He is currently in custody at Mawanda Road Police Station as investigations continue and preparations for prosecution are underway,” Owoyesigyire confirmed.
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Authorities have not yet disclosed whether any of the stolen gold or cash has been recovered, but investigations are ongoing.
The case has renewed attention on insider-related thefts involving private security personnel, particularly those entrusted with safeguarding high-value assets such as gold, cash, and sensitive commercial goods.
Law enforcement officials have urged private security firms and employers to strengthen recruitment vetting processes, enhance supervision, and deploy stricter internal controls to minimise risks.
Industry analysts note that Uganda’s growing gold trade, driven by regional exports and refining activities, has increasingly attracted criminal activity, making secure handling and oversight critical.
