KAMPALA, Uganda : A late-night break-in at Uganda’s central bank has triggered a high-profile criminal investigation after thieves made off with sensitive electronic equipment in a raid that exposed growing concerns over security at major financial institutions.
Authorities say the burglary occurred on the night of May 3, 2026 when criminals infiltrated offices of the Bank of Uganda along Kampala Road and stole six laptop computers in what investigators believe was a carefully coordinated operation.
The case quickly drew national attention, with detectives launching an intensive manhunt that has now resulted in the arrest of four suspects. Police confirmed that all six stolen laptops have since been recovered following a series of operations across Kampala.
Investigators initially arrested two suspects and recovered part of the stolen property before pursuing fresh leads that led to two more arrests and the recovery of the remaining computers. The suspects have been identified as Boaz Michael Kule, Ramathan Kabuya also known as Rama, Lubangakene Isaac Izoo, and Oedo Jorem Jude.
Security analysts say attacks targeting financial institutions are increasingly becoming more sophisticated, with criminal networks often seeking access not only to hardware but also to confidential institutional data.
The suspects are expected to appear before the Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court on charges including office breaking, theft, receiving stolen property, and retaining stolen property.
Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesman, said investigations remain ongoing and warned that anyone linked to organized criminal activity would be pursued and prosecuted.
The incident has since reignited debate around cybersecurity and physical security measures within critical state institutions.
