During the previous week, two more aggravated robberies by criminal gangs targeting fuel stations occurred. Like we indicated in our previous briefings, the robbers either disguise as clients branching to refuel their vehicles, then round up the private security guards and other staff on the night shift, before robbing them; or carryout direct attacks on workers at these fuel stations deep in the night especially between 1-4am, while armed with weapons.
For instance, on the 28.04. 2022, at around 1am, Total Fuel Station, Semuto Branch, in Nakaseke District, was raided by 5 suspects armed with guns and iron bars. They rounded up all the guards and staff and tied them up. And then broke the door to the offices, where they robbed all the money in the safe. In addition, they stole goods and commodities from the supermarket which they boldly loaded into a waiting motor vehicle. The suspects also robbed a motorcycle bajaj boxer, registration number, UDM 829F, ridden by Sembajjwe Charles, who had branched for fuel. They seriously beat him and robbed his motorcycle.
Again, on the 30.04. 2022, at around 2am, a group of thugs attacked Seka Energy petrol station in Kayunga. They attacked and killed a private security guard, identified as Waiswa John aged 36. His colleague Kasonga Suleiman, aged 37, was tied with ropes and found unconscious. He was rushed to Kayunga Regional Referral Hospital for further treatment. The thugs also vandalized two motor vehicles that were parked at the petrol station.
Once again, we want to issue another warning to proprietors and dealers of fuel stations, to ensure they thoroughly audit the security processes, at their business premises, so as to enable them fill the security gaps in place. In addition, all supervisors of private security organizations are instructed to increase their level of inspections, at all guard points to help enhance the levels of alertness. The fact that most guards fall victim during these attacks, at fuel stations is proof of low levels of vigilance and alertness at their guard points
CP Fred Enanga
Press and Public Relations Officer
Uganda Police Force
03.05.022
