By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
WAKISO
The police in Wakiso district on Sunday foiled an attempted armed robbery at Diamond Trust Bank’s (DTB) Wakiso branch.
The attempted heist occurred during the morning hours of Sunday 27th April, 2025, when the robbers who are the private security guards at the bank tried to break into the banking premises.
They were however foiled following a swift response by security forces and the quick activation of the bank’s emergency protocols.
“Thanks to the quick activation of our security protocols and the support of the security forces, the attempt was successfully foiled,” the bank statement read in part.
The suspects took refugee in the ceiling as security forces cordoned off the premises and started firing bullets resulting into the death of one suspect, Emmanuel Okao. Another suspect, Justin Okello was apprehended at the scene after he surrendered to authorities and is currently in police custody.
It is alleged that the robbers broke into the bank through the ceiling in the washrooms and tried to access the safe containing the money triggering an alarm that alerted police.
DTB spokesperson, Samuel Matekha said that all the bank property is safe and secure, emphasizing their ongoing collaboration with the Uganda Police Force and other relevant security agencies to ensure that a thorough and transparent investigation is conducted.
“We are closely collaborating with the Uganda Police and other security agencies to ensure a full and transparent investigation,” the statement continued.
“… and want to reassure our customers, staff, and partners that all bank property remains safe and secure,” Matekha noted.
The Kampala Metropolitan North Regional Police Commander, SSP Moses Nanoka condemned the incident, stating that investigations are underway to fully uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident as well as holding the responsible parties accountable.
Nanoka said that police recovered guns used by the robbers, their shoes and uniform as exhibits. He confirmed Okello’s arrest who he said will aid in investigations.