MUKONO, Uganda — Police in Mukono are investigating a violent armed robbery at a fuel station in which two security personnel were injured and a firearm stolen, in what authorities suspect was a coordinated overnight attack.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday when unidentified assailants stormed the station, confronted workers on duty, and swiftly overpowered them before escaping with a gun and approximately Shs350,000 in cash collected from fuel sales.
The injured victims were identified as Patrick Aliki, a private security guard attached to Ultimate Security Ltd, and Brian Sentubwe, a pump attendant at the station. Both were injured during the attack and are receiving medical care.
Police said preliminary findings indicate that the attackers acted as a group and used force to subdue the guards before taking the firearm and cash. Officers from the crime intelligence and forensic units later visited the scene to document evidence and reconstruct the sequence of events.
Mukono District Police spokesperson ASP Hellen Butoto condemned the attack, describing it as a “reckless act of violence against civilians carrying out their lawful duties,” and confirmed that a manhunt for the suspects is underway.
“We are pursuing all possible leads, and we believe the suspects will be apprehended soon. We also urge anyone with information to cooperate with security agencies,” ASP Butoto said.
Eyewitnesses said the attack happened within minutes, leaving staff and nearby residents in shock. One witness, Rasuud Bazibu, said the attackers appeared prepared and moved quickly through the station.
“They came suddenly and overpowered the guards immediately. It was very fast and frightening,” he said.
The stolen firearm has raised concern among security officials, who warn that weapons taken during such robberies often end up fueling further violent crimes. Police say recovering the gun is now a priority in the ongoing investigation.
The incident adds to a growing number of violent attacks targeting fuel stations in Mukono and surrounding districts, where night operations and cash handling make them vulnerable to armed robberies. Security analysts have repeatedly called for stronger surveillance systems, improved lighting, and tighter coordination between private guards and police response units.
In previous incidents in the district, similar attacks have resulted in deaths and the theft of firearms, prompting renewed debate over the safety of nighttime commercial operations.
Police have assured the public that investigations are ongoing and that additional security deployments may be considered in high-risk areas as the search for the suspects continues.
