Police in Kassanda District have launched a comprehensive investigation into a fatal shooting following an attempted burglary at the Kamakya Gold Ore Processing Plant. The incident, which occurred on the night of January 3, 2026, has raised fresh concerns regarding security at mining facilities in the Wamala region.
The Incident: Breakdown of the Burglary Attempt
According to SSP Lameck Kigozi, the Wamala Region Police spokesperson, the confrontation took place at approximately 8:40 PM in Lugongwe LC1, Kijuna Subcounty.
Onyait Daniel, a security guard employed by Quantico Securico Company, reportedly spotted a group of unidentified individuals moving within a restricted section of the gold processing plant. When the guard challenged the group to identify themselves, the suspects attempted to flee in different directions.
In the ensuing pursuit, the guard discharged his firearm, striking one of the intruders in the chest. The unidentified male died instantly at the scene.
Police Response and Evidence Collection
The Lugongwe Mineral Protection Unit, led by Sergeant Makhoha Jimmy, arrived shortly after the shooting to secure the perimeter. They were joined by the Kassanda District Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO) to document evidence.
Key details from the investigation include:
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Weapon Recovered: An AK-47 assault rifle (Registration No. UG POL PSO 56400151010447) was found at the site. Police are currently verifying whether the weapon belonged to the burglars or was dropped during the chaos.
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Detention: The security guard, Onyait Daniel, has been taken into police custody for questioning as per standard operating procedure for fatal discharge of a firearm.
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Body Status: The deceased was transported to Kassanda Health Center IV mortuary for a postmortem examination.
Warning to the Public on Mining Zone Security
Following the incident, SSP Kigozi issued a stern warning to residents of Kassanda and neighboring districts. He emphasized that gold mining and industrial processing sites are high-security zones.
“We caution the public to avoid trespassing into these protected sites. Mining facilities are sensitive areas, and anyone with legitimate business must seek formal clearance from management before entry,” Kigozi stated.
Investigations are ongoing to identify the deceased and determine if there are other suspects still at large.
