By Spy Uganda
Police in Masindi have foiled an attempted armed robbery at Gaz Petro Station in Central Division, Masindi Municipality, arresting one of the suspects and recovering a pump-action firearm and a knife.
The incident happened at around midnight when two men travelling on motorcycle registration number UGG 529P allegedly targeted a security guard deployed at the fuel station.
According to preliminary police findings, the suspects first tried to persuade the guard to reposition their motorcycle. Police suspect the request was intended to create an opportunity to attack him.
The situation reportedly turned violent when the suspects allegedly confronted the guard with a pump-action shotgun and a knife, attempting to overpower and disarm him.
The guard resisted, leading to a struggle in which he sustained injuries. His resistance, however, gave a nearby police patrol team time to respond to the scene.
Police officers intervened and managed to foil the robbery before the suspects could make away with any property.
One of the suspects, identified as Odoma Ronald, 43, was arrested at the scene. Police also recovered a pump-action firearm, a knife and the motorcycle allegedly used in the attempted robbery.
The second suspect managed to escape and remains at large, prompting police to launch a hunt for him.
Investigations are ongoing as detectives work to establish the circumstances surrounding the attempted robbery and whether the suspects could be linked to other similar incidents in the area.
Police commended the security guard for his vigilance and bravery in resisting the attackers, saying his actions, coupled with the quick response by the patrol team, helped prevent the robbery.
The force has also urged security guards, business owners and members of the public to remain alert, particularly during night operations, and to promptly report suspicious movements or individuals to the nearest police station.
