Six security guards from Wolves Security Company faced the Kabale magistrate’s court on June 24, 2024, accused of threatening violence against State Minister for Minerals, Ms. Phiona Nyamutoro, and her team during an incident at Butare-Katijo town council in Rubanda District.
The guards allegedly obstructed Minister Nyamutoro’s convoy and refused to open the gate for her and her team upon their arrival at around 10 am on Thursday. The situation escalated when the guards reportedly cocked their guns and threatened to shoot, prompting intervention from the police to defuse the confrontation.
The accused guards appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to seven charges related to threatening violence against the minister, a geologist from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, a police liaison officer, and several other officials accompanying the minister.
Prosecution, led by Ms. Rachael Nkwanzi, presented the case, detailing that the incident occurred on June 20, 2024. The charges against the guards included intimidation and annoyance, highlighting the severity of the alleged offense.
Kabale Grade One Magistrate, Julius Mutabazi, presided over the hearing and subsequently ordered the remand of the six guards to Ndorwa prison. The decision to remand them followed their plea and the seriousness of the charges brought against them.
The court proceedings underscored the legal ramifications of obstructing and threatening public officials in the course of their duties. The incident has drawn attention to security protocols and the conduct expected from private security firms tasked with safeguarding public and government personnel.
The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, which oversees mineral resources and related activities, has not issued an official statement regarding the incident. However, it is likely that the ministry will review security arrangements to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Security and safety concerns for government officials and their entourages remain paramount, necessitating strict adherence to protocols and laws governing public interactions and security operations. The outcome of the court case will determine the consequences for the accused guards, reflecting the judiciary’s stance on such incidents.
