crime 29 April 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Kampala Serena Hotel Porter Remanded for Stealing $12,000 from South Sudan Brigadier General
A 39-year-old porter at Kampala Serena Hotel, William Ssemata, has been remanded to Luzira Prison by Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court over the theft of $12,000 belonging to South Sudanese Brig Gen Aaron Jeremiah Balla. The incident allegedly occurred on April 12, 2026, with CCTV footage implicating Ssemata in handling the luggage. Source: https://observer.ug/news/serena-hotel-porter-remanded-over-missing-s-sudan-presidents-12000-cash
A porter from Kampala Serena Hotel has been detained after allegedly stealing $12,000 from a South Sudanese military officer staying at the hotel.
William Ssemata, 39, faced grade one magistrate Rophine Achayo at Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court. He was charged with theft of cash owned by Brig Gen Aaron Jeremiah Balla of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces.
The offence reportedly took place on April 12, 2026, at the hotel. Brig Gen Balla arrived from Malaysia via Entebbe International Airport carrying $12,300, given to him by South Sudan’s president for buying gifts like a wristwatch. After exchanging $300 at the airport, $12,000 remained for shopping.
Upon check-in, hotel staff including Ssemata screened and delivered Balla’s three suitcases and handbag to his room. CCTV captured Ssemata handling the luggage and entering a lift alone, but no cameras covered the lift interior.
The hotel’s assistant security manager, Moses Olowo, confirmed via statement that Ssemata was the sole staff member directly involved. State attorney Grace Amy noted ongoing investigations.
Ssemata was arrested on April 18, 2026, at Central Police Station, denied the charge, and remanded to Luzira Prison until May 13, 2026, for hearing before trial magistrate Ritah Kidasa.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)