Police in Hoima District have launched an investigation into an incident where unknown assailants attacked a private security guard and stole his gun in the early hours of the morning.
Julius Hakiza, the Albertine Region Police Spokesperson, confirmed that Geoffrey Byaruhanga, a private security guard stationed at shops along Hoima–Fort Portal Road, opposite Hoima Fuel Station, was attacked at around 3am.
The attackers struck him on the head and shoulder with an iron bar before making off with his firearm.
"Byaruhanga was attacked at 3am, hit on the head and shoulder with an iron bar, and the assailants later fled with his gun," Hakiza explained.
As part of their investigation, police have detained Byaruhanga as a primary suspect. Hakiza clarified that the arrest is procedural, given Byaruhanga’s role in witnessing the events.
"He becomes our first suspect because he saw how events unfolded. However, there is also the possibility he might have played a role in the robbery. He is being held to assist us with the investigations," Hakiza stated.
Police expressed frustration with private security companies for not heeding advice to deploy more than one guard at high-risk sites.
"We have repeatedly warned private security companies about deploying a single guard at night. It endangers their employees and makes it easier for assailants to overpower them and steal. Yet, many companies continue to ignore this advice," Hakiza noted.
The police have yet to identify the attackers, but efforts are underway to analyze CCTV footage from the area to identify possible leads.
This incident adds to a growing number of attacks on security personnel in the Bunyoro region, raising concerns about the safety and adequacy of private security measures in the area.