Police in the Kampala Metropolitan area have launched a massive manhunt for a private security guard accused of stealing Shs290 million in cash and gold valued at Shs500 million from a prominent gold refinery.
The suspect, identified by police as Justine Akena, is a resident of Naguru Go Down and was attached to Magnum Security Group. At the time of the incident, he was deployed to guard the offices of Goldex Uganda Limited, located along Mawanda Road.
How the Shs790 Million Heist Unfolded
The theft, which occurred on the night of Friday, April 10, 2026, appears to have been a result of a security lapse and careful observation by the suspect.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson, Luke Owoyesigyire, the incident involved a white Toyota Noah (UA 264AN).
The Timeline of the Theft:
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8:00 PM: An employee returned to the Goldex offices with a bag containing Shs290 million and a significant quantity of gold.
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The Lapse: Finding the office premises already locked and fearing to carry the valuables home, the employee decided to leave the bag inside the vehicle.
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The Break-in: Justine Akena allegedly broke into the vehicle, secured the bag, and locked the car back up to delay discovery.
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The Escape: The suspect then locked the main premises and vanished before the theft was detected.
Police Investigation and Suspect Profile
Preliminary findings suggest that Akena had been monitoring the company’s routines. Earlier that day, an employee had unknowingly driven the suspect to the city center and back, during which time Akena is believed to have spotted the cash and gold.
“Efforts are underway to have him arrested. We are working with Magnum Security Group to track his movements,” Owoyesigyire stated.
Key Details for Public Vigilance:
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Suspect Name: Justine Akena
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Security Firm: Magnum Security Group
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Last Known Location: Mawanda Road / Naguru
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Total Stolen Value: Shs 790,000,000 (Cash + Gold)
Industry Reaction: A Call for Stricter Vetting
This high-profile theft has reignited calls for gold refineries and high-value businesses in Kampala to implement stricter vetting processes for private security personnel. Security experts recommend:
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Dual-Custody Protocols: Never leaving high-value assets in vehicles or under the watch of a single guard.
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Internal CCTV: Ensuring 24/7 remote monitoring that is not accessible to ground-level security.
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Background Checks: Regular updates on the residences and familial ties of deployed guards.
