Jinja, Uganda – Police in Jinja District thwarted a bold robbery attempt at Buwenge branch of Pride Microfinance Bank early Friday morning.
The robbers, who had broken in by cutting a hole through the roof, were stopped before they could access millions of shillings in valuables and firearms belonging to the bank’s private security guards.
At around 4:00 AM, the suspects executed a daring plan, breaking into the bank by cutting a hole in the roof.
Once inside, they disabled CCTV cameras, removed the DVR hard drives, and made off with two laptop computers.
Their primary targets were two firearms belonging to Saracen Uganda Limited guards and the bank’s safe deposit boxes, where millions in cash and valuables were stored.
The criminals’ plans were cut short when Buwenge police, led by District Police Commander (DPC) SP Morris Oyee, swiftly responded to an emergency alert.
The operation, supported by a police dog unit, recovered the stolen firearms and ensured that the safe deposit boxes remained untouched.
“Our team acted decisively to prevent what could have been a major financial loss and a serious breach of security,” SP Oyee stated. “The suspects are now in custody and will aid our ongoing investigation.”
Two individuals have been apprehended, though their identities are being withheld for investigative purposes.
Police confirmed that the suspects had meticulously planned the heist, targeting the bank’s surveillance system and rooftop vulnerability.
Following the incident, SP James Mubi issued a strong advisory to businesses, particularly banks, hotels and factories, urging them to bolster their security systems.
“Criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated. We encourage institutions to invest in advanced security measures, including rooftop sensors and reinforced surveillance systems,” Mubi emphasized.
The swift action by the police has been widely praised by the local community and business owners, who credit the force’s efficiency with averting what could have been a catastrophic financial loss.
“I feel safer knowing that the police are proactive and vigilant,” remarked John Wamala, a local business owner in Buwenge. “This incident is a wake-up call for all of us to improve our security measures.”
This thwarted heist highlights the evolving tactics of criminal groups and the need for robust security protocols in Uganda’s financial sector.
Pride Microfinance Bank has not yet commented on the incident, but sources indicate that no funds were lost during the attempted robbery.
Law enforcement is urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that could help prevent similar incidents in the future.
