crime 4 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Burglars Infiltrate Bank of Uganda, Cart Away Laptops with Insider Help
Armed thugs broke into the Bank of Uganda's Kampala headquarters early Monday, stealing seven laptops and security gear worth Shs50 million in a heist aided by staff and guards. The central bank confirmed the breach but stressed that core operations continue uninterrupted as police probe the incident. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/thugs-break-into-bank-of-uganda-steal-laptops-5446878
Unidentified burglars gained unauthorized access to the Bank of Uganda’s well-secured premises in Kampala on Monday morning, fleeing with seven laptops from the commercial offices.
Police preliminary findings point to collusion between the thieves, some bank staff, and security personnel. The gang entered via the City Square gate, spent nearly three hours inside, and used duplicated keys to avoid forced entry. They also disabled the internet and took a CCTV server plus an internet router valued at Shs50 million, though they couldn’t breach the cash safe.
CCTV footage captured five men vandalizing cameras and doors in a failed attempt to access the strong room. Sniffer dogs traced the suspects to Mutaasa Kafeero Plaza downtown, prompting a raid where over 20 people were arrested and items recovered.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Racheal Kawala confirmed the intelligence-led operation but avoided linking it directly to the BoU incident. Sources indicate the bank directed police to limit public statements.
Bank of Uganda Communications Director Kenneth Egesa acknowledged the unlawful entry and theft, noting close cooperation with security agencies. Two night-shift counter-terrorism guards reportedly abandoned their posts, prompting internal inquiries and statements from the team.
Despite the security lapse, BoU assured the public that core banking functions remain fully operational.
Source: Daily Monitor