By Robert Segawa
Police in Kampala are investigating an aggravated robbery incident in which a businessman and a banking agent were robbed of over UGX 30 million after withdrawing the money from KCB Bank. The robbery occurred on Saturday, January 4, 2024, in the bustling area of Fifth Street, around Mutabaazi Lane.
The victim, identified as Baraka Francis, was reportedly attacked by a group of masked thugs riding on motorcycles, also known as Boda bodas. According to Patrick Onyango, the Kampala Metropolitan police spokesperson, investigations revealed that Baraka was targeted immediately after withdrawing a large sum of money from KCB Bank at Sixth Street.
Preliminary findings suggest that Baraka noticed the suspects on his way out of the bank and made his way to his motorcycle. However, as he was riding along, he was intercepted by the criminals, who were armed with pangas (machetes) and riding on motorcycles as well.
Onyango urged the business community to be more cautious when handling large sums of money, advising them not to carry substantial amounts of cash unless absolutely necessary. He further emphasized the importance of seeking security assistance either from the police or private security firms if they must transport large sums of money.
He also encouraged businesses to adopt banking technology to reduce the risks associated with carrying cash and recommended that business owners avoid predictable banking habits. “Change your banking or withdrawal times, for example, switch from morning to afternoon or evening hours,” Onyango advised, noting that criminals often track routine patterns.
As investigations continue, police are working to identify the suspects involved in the robbery and ensure the safety of the business community.
