crime 14 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Police Launch Manhunt for Security Guard in Shs32M Gold Theft in Kampala
Authorities in Kampala are searching for Justin Akena, a security guard suspected of breaking into a vehicle and stealing over Shs32 million plus 900 grams of gold from Goldex Global Company Limited on Mawanda Road. Detectives are tracking his movements toward northern Uganda using call data records. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/-police-hunt-security-guard-over-shs32-million-gold-heist--5423728
Police in Kampala have intensified efforts to apprehend Justin Akena, a guard with Magnum Security Company Limited, accused of stealing valuables from Goldex Global Company Limited’s premises on Mawanda Road.
On April 10 around 8:00 a.m., Akena allegedly entered a pearl white Toyota Noah (UA 264AN) and fled with a bag holding Shs32.45 million and approximately 900 grams of suspected gold, which had been left in the vehicle overnight.
Kampala Metropolitan deputy police spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire confirmed a theft from motor vehicle case was filed at Mawanda Road Police Station. Detectives examined the scene, secured CCTV footage, gathered witness statements, and searched Akena’s Naguru residence, but found no key evidence.
Investigators suspect Akena monitored the driver’s habits to access the vehicle keys. He reportedly locked the gate after the theft and headed north, possibly to Lira or Oyam District, with police analyzing his call data to trace him.
This incident reflects a national surge in thefts, as the 2025 police crime report noted 56,360 cases, with thousands still under probe. Authorities are calling on the public for tips to aid the arrest.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)