Thugs Break into Bank of Uganda Headquarters, Steal Laptops and Security Equipment Security Breach Raises Questions Over Insider Collusion at Fortified Central Bank
Kampala – In a shocking security breach, unknown thugs broke into the highly guarded Bank of Uganda (BOU) headquarters in Kampala in the early hours of Monday, May 4, 2026, making off with seven laptops, a CCTV server, and an internet router.
The daring raid targeted the bank’s commercial offices in the shorter tower at Plot 45, Kampala Road, near City Square. According to preliminary investigations, the assailants gained access through a gate opposite City Square, reportedly using duplicated keys, before spending nearly three hours inside the premises.
“They cut internet lines, vandalized some security cameras, and left with the stolen items without touching cash or other valuables,” a source familiar with the incident told local media.
Bank Confirms Incident
The Bank of Uganda has confirmed the unlawful entry. In a public notice, the bank’s Director of Communications, Kenneth Egesa, acknowledged that seven laptop computers were stolen during the overnight incident.
“Yes, we had a break-in and seven laptops were stolen,” a bank source told New Vision. However, the central bank moved quickly to reassure the public that core banking operations and critical systems remain unaffected and fully functional.
Swift Security Response and Arrests
A joint team of security agencies, including the Uganda Police Force, Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Defence Intelligence and Security, and the Internal Security Organisation (ISO), swiftly descended on the scene to collect forensic evidence. Police sniffer dogs were deployed to trace the suspects.
The trail led investigators to downtown Kampala arcades, including areas around Mutaasa Kafeero Plaza and Kalunji Plaza. In a coordinated raid, over 20 suspects were arrested, with several mobile phones and other electronics recovered. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the theft and possible links.
Questions Over Security Lapses and Insider Help
The breach at one of Uganda’s most fortified institutions has sparked widespread concern and speculation about possible insider collusion, including potential involvement of security guards on duty. The theft of the CCTV server and router has further complicated immediate review of footage.
This incident comes months after reports of a major cyber theft at the same institution, where hackers allegedly siphoned off billions of shillings, adding to scrutiny over the bank’s overall security posture.
Bank officials have downplayed the immediate impact, insisting that no cash was taken and that sensitive national financial systems were not compromised.
As police and intelligence agencies continue their probe, Ugandans are left wondering how such a bold operation could occur at the country’s central bank. TrendingUg.com will continue to follow developments and provide updates as more details emerge from the ongoing investigations.
