Seven Laptop Computers Stolen from Bank of Uganda

By Patrick Okino

Bank of Uganda has reported the theft of seven laptops containing sensitive information from its head office premises at Plot 45, Kampala Road.

According to a statement issued by the central bank, the incident occurred overnight on Sunday and was discovered on Monday, May 4. Authorities believe unknown individuals unlawfully accessed the premises and made off with the devices.

“Bank of Uganda wishes to inform the public that an incident of unlawful entry was detected this morning at its Head Office premises at Plot 45 Kampala Road,” the statement said.

Police have since launched investigations into the matter. The bank noted that it is working closely with relevant security agencies to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure appropriate action is taken.

Despite the breach, the central bank reassured the public that its core operations and services remain fully functional and have not been disrupted.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Previous issues at the Central Bank

The latest incident comes amid ongoing fallout from a major financial scandal involving the Bank and the Ministry of Finance.

In 2024, fraudsters diverted over UGX 60 billion (approximately $14–16 million) in debt-servicing payments meant for the World Bank and the African Development Bank to private accounts in London and Tokyo.

Investigations revealed that the fraud was not a direct cyberattack on the central bank but rather an inside job involving manipulation of the Integrated Financial Management System (IFMS) at the Ministry of Finance.

By February 2025, eight officials—including the Accountant General and senior IT personnel—had been charged with multiple offenses such as corruption, money laundering, and causing financial loss. By March 2026, at least 21 individuals had been questioned in connection with the case.

Authorities have since recovered over $8 million from funds sent to London, though efforts to trace money transferred to Tokyo and other locations in Asia are ongoing.

The case is currently before the Anti-Corruption Court, with investigations pointing to possible international coordination and internal collusion.