Uganda’s law enforcement has successfully recovered a stolen semi-trailer tanker, marking a significant victory in their efforts. This stolen tanker, identified as a blue Mercedes Benz with registration number UAU 402E, was the victim of a brazen armed robbery that occurred on the Iganga-Jinja highway on October 21, 2023, at 9:00 p.m.

The audacious robbery saw the armed assailants confront the tanker’s driver at gunpoint and make off with 34 tonnes of kerosene. The valuable cargo, which was in transit from Kenya to the Prompet Energies Ltd depot in Kampala, remained entirely intact upon its recovery.

The driver of the stolen tanker, Abdul Nuru, a Somali based in Kisumu, Kenya, had a harrowing experience. He was forcibly removed from the vehicle, bound with his hands and legs, and confined to the trunk of a Toyota Wish. Nuru was later found in Kakira sugar plantations, where he received the necessary first aid, and his statement was recorded at the Iganga Police Station.

The recovery of the stolen goods was a collaborative effort involving the Kakira Territorial Police, the Busoga East Territorial Police, Jinja City Police, and Iganga Police, demonstrating a well-coordinated response.

Investigations are now underway to identify and apprehend the criminals responsible for the robbery.

This incident highlights the vulnerability of goods in transit, particularly high-value cargoes like fuel, which are prime targets for criminal activity, often under the cover of night. Criminals attempted to tamper with the cargo seal but were ultimately unsuccessful. In light of this incident, authorities and security agencies are urging increased vigilance and the implementation of robust security measures to safeguard goods in transit.

The recovery of the stolen semi-trailer tanker is a significant step in combating criminal activities targeting cargo shipments and ensuring the safety and security of the transport industry in Uganda.