By Peter Luzinda
MUKONO
Police in Mukono District are investigating a violent armed robbery at a fuel station in which two workers were injured and a firearm stolen, amid growing concern over rising attacks targeting night-time businesses.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday, 22nd May, 2026 when armed assailants stormed the station, overpowered staff on duty and escaped with a gun belonging to a private security guard as well as about Shs350,000 in cash.
The victims were identified as Patrick Aliki, a security guard attached to Ultimate Security Ltd, and Brian Sentubwe, a pump attendant. Both sustained injuries during the attack and were rushed to a nearby health facility for treatment.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the attackers operated in a group and moved quickly to neutralize resistance before accessing the cash office and fleeing the scene.
Ssezibwa Police spokesperson, ASP Hellen Butoto confirmed the incident and said security agencies have intensified efforts to track down the suspects.
“We are treating this as a serious armed robbery involving the theft of a firearm. A manhunt is underway, and we urge anyone with information to assist police investigations,” she said.
Witnesses described the raid as sudden and well-coordinated. One eyewitness, Rasuud Bazibu, said the attackers appeared prepared and executed the attack within minutes.
“They came very fast, overpowered the guards, and disappeared. It was frightening,” he said.
Police forensic teams and crime intelligence officers visited the scene to gather evidence, including possible surveillance footage and witness statements, as part of efforts to reconstruct the sequence of events.
The theft of a firearm has raised alarm among security officials, who warn that stolen guns often end up being used in further violent crimes, making recovery of the weapon a top priority.
Mukono District has experienced a series of similar fuel station attacks in recent years, with security experts pointing to cash-based transactions, limited nighttime staffing, and predictable operational routines as key vulnerabilities.
Authorities have urged fuel station operators to strengthen security measures while investigations continue and efforts to apprehend the suspects remain ongoing.
