Police in Kampala have arrested a foreign man and a boda boda rider after a fake bomb scare caused panic at ABSA Bank and Guild Forex Bureau, both located at Quality Supermarket in Lubowa. The suspects are accused of plotting an elaborate hoax to extort over UGX 600 million from the two financial institutions.
According to reports, the foreign suspect handed envelopes to boda rider Madi Muteta, instructing him to deliver them to the bank and forex bureau. When staff opened the envelopes, they were shocked to find threatening letters. The messages claimed that pipe bombs had been planted at the entrances and demanded money in different currencies—$120,000 (UGX 427m), €20,000 (UGX 83m), £20,000 (UGX 96m), and UGX 30m—to stop the supposed explosions.
Police reacted immediately, sealing off the area and deploying the bomb squad. After thorough checks, it was confirmed that no bombs had been planted and the threats were fake. Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Patrick Onyango later confirmed the arrests, saying investigations are still ongoing.
CCTV cameras along Entebbe Road were key in tracking down the foreign suspect, capturing the vehicle used in the delivery of the envelopes. Muteta, on the other hand, admitted to delivering the letters but claimed he had no idea what they contained. He told police he was only paid UGX 20,000 for the job, thinking it was an easy way to make quick money. “I thought I was just lucky to earn twenty thousand for a short trip. I did not know it would land me in trouble,” he said.
Authorities are now investigating the foreign suspect’s motives and background, while also urging financial institutions in Kajjansi, Lubowa, and surrounding areas to stay on high alert.
Despite the panic, police reassured the public that there was never any real danger, but warned that such hoaxes are taken seriously under the law. They emphasized that fake bomb threats not only disrupt communities but also carry heavy legal consequences.
This incident highlights how extortion schemes are becoming more daring, and it serves as a reminder that vigilance, swift reporting, and strong police response are vital in protecting the public.
