In a statement released by management, DTB said the quick activation of security protocols and the support of security forces had helped avert the heist.
"Thanks to the quick activation of our security protocols and the support of the security forces, the attempt was successfully foiled," the bank said.
DTB added that one suspect is currently in police custody while another "regrettably lost his life during the operation."
The bank further reassured its customers, staff, and partners that "all bank property remains safe and secure" and promised to share further updates as investigations proceed.
The events unfolded around 2:00 PM when a group of guards from GKO Security Company, led by Emmanuel Ekawu, allegedly attempted to rob the bank.
According to witness accounts, the group initiated the heist by switching off all lights and surveillance cameras surrounding the premises in a calculated effort to evade detection.
They reportedly gained entry through a rear maintenance entrance near the latrines, demonstrating a deliberate plan to access the vaults unnoticed.
Once inside, the suspects targeted the bank’s safe, but their activities triggered the alarm system, alerting local police and residents.
Area chairperson Henry Kibirige confirmed that the community was alarmed by the security breach.
"As soon as we heard the alarm, we knew something was wrong, but unfortunately, the robbers were armed, and we couldn’t intervene directly," Kibirige said, commending the swift response by the Uganda Police and Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
Law enforcement quickly surrounded the building, resulting in a fierce exchange of gunfire.
Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots as police and UPDF soldiers engaged the robbers.
During the confrontation, Emmanuel Ekawu was fatally shot, while another suspect, identified as Justice Okello, surrendered after being cornered.
Sources close to the investigation revealed that the suspects initially tried to hide in the bank’s ceiling but were flushed out by security forces.
Samuel Matekha, the spokesperson for Diamond Trust Bank, noted that no money or property was lost.
"We are fortunate that everything is okay, and no assets were taken from the bank," he said.
DTB reiterated in its statement that it is working closely with the Uganda Police and other security agencies "to ensure a full and transparent investigation."
The bank also expressed gratitude for "the swift and professional actions of the security forces, which helped protect our premises."
Police investigations into the attempted robbery and its planning are ongoing.