G4S security guards steal Shs 1bn cash from bullion van

Old Kampala Police Division has arrested an G4S security guard, Richard Ambrose-Otim, suspected of stealing over Shs 1 billion during a cash transit operation over the weekend. His colleague, who is yet to be identified, remains on the run.

According to Kampala Metropolitan deputy police spokesperson, Luke Owoyesigyire, preliminary investigations reveal that the duo conspired to rob a bullion van, registration number, UAJ 199T, while transporting cash from Lubowa to Nakasero. The van was later abandoned in Nabunya, Rubaga Division, along with two rifles.

The stolen amount includes Shs 1,069,420,000 and $14,474. Following a manhunt, police apprehended Otim in Kwania district, where he was found with Shs 117 million, believed to be part of the stolen money. Owoyesigyire reassured the public that all efforts are being made to recover the remaining funds and bring all perpetrators to justice.

“This is unusual, where security guards entrusted with safeguarding cash or transporting it conspire to steal it,” Owoyesigyire said. 

The robbery reflects a growing trend in such crimes. According to the 2023 crime report by the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), 551 cases of cash robbery were reported to police, a 24% increase from 443 cases in 2022.

The incident has raised concerns over the integrity of cash transit security personnel and the need for improved safeguards to prevent such occurrences.