crime 13 April 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Kamwokya Guard Flees with Shs 290m Cash and Gold from Goldex Offices
Police are hunting Justin Akena, a Magnum Security guard, who allegedly stole over Shs 290 million in cash and gold from a vehicle at Goldex Global Company in Kampala's Kamwokya area. The Flying Squad is working with the security firm to track him down amid rising insider thefts in the sector. Source: https://observer.ug/news/kamwokya-security-guard-vanishes-with-shs-290m-gold
A private security guard stationed at Goldex Global Company’s offices on Mawanda Road in Kamwokya has gone missing after allegedly stealing a large sum of money and gold.
Justin Akena, employed by Magnum Security Company Limited, was on duty guarding a vehicle when he reportedly broke into it over the weekend and fled with a bag containing Shs 290 million in cash and suspected gold.
Kampala Metropolitan deputy police spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire confirmed the incident, noting Akena had been deployed at the site for some time. ‘We urge the public to share any information on his whereabouts,’ Owoyesigyire stated, adding that Flying Squad teams are actively pursuing leads.
Police are collaborating with Magnum Security to apprehend the suspect swiftly.
This case highlights ongoing issues with insider crimes by security guards, often tied to low wages, poor training, and hiring from uncertified firms, according to the Private Security Association.
Similar incidents include the 2024 arrest of two G4S guards for stealing over Shs 1 billion from a bullion van on Entebbe Road, and a 2025 case involving Safetec guard Abraham Opedun in a forex bureau theft in Arua Park.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)