news 12 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Eight Security Personnel Trial Begins Over Bank of Uganda Break-in
Eight security personnel are on trial for alleged negligence in preventing a break-in and theft at the Bank of Uganda headquarters. The accused, including police counter-terrorism officers and private security guards, deny the charges. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/eight-security-personnel-on-trial-over-bank-of-uganda-break-in-5555768
The trial of eight security personnel, accused of failing to prevent a significant break-in at the Bank of Uganda (BoU) headquarters in Kampala, has commenced. The prosecution alleges that the accused, who were on duty at the time, neglected their duties, allowing unknown individuals to breach the central bank’s security and steal property, including laptops.
The accused include police officers from the Counter Terrorism Tactical Unit and guards from private security firms, Ultimate Security Ltd and Saracen Uganda Limited. They face charges of neglect to prevent a felony. All defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges leveled against them.
The first prosecution witness, Assistant Inspector George Wamala, testified that he was deployed at the bank and responded to the incident on May 4, 2026. He described finding muddy footprints and scattered laptop bags at the scene on the third floor. He reported the incident as office breaking and theft to the police, who subsequently began an investigation.
During cross-examination, Inspector Wamala acknowledged that he did not know the exact time of the break-in or what specific items were stolen upon his initial arrival. He also stated he was unaware of who was guarding the premises at the precise time of the incident.
Tracy Murungi Amupire, a Bank of Uganda banking officer, also testified. She recounted discovering the break-in upon arriving at her office on the morning of May 4. She noticed muddy footprints, disturbed window louvres, and the absence of her laptop and her manager’s laptop. She stated that security personnel were alerted after her discovery.
The prosecution has presented several laptops as evidence, with plans to have witnesses identify them as stolen items. The court heard that CCTV footage was obtained by investigators, and stolen laptops were reportedly recovered from dealers in used electronics. The case continues to draw attention due to the high-security nature of the Bank of Uganda. The hearing has been adjourned to September 1, 2026, for the prosecution to present further evidence.