GT Expert Security Group office premises
Public concern over the conduct and regulation of private security guards has intensified following a deadly shooting incident at the Rwenzori Regional Police offices along Kiboga Road in Fort Portal, which left two people dead on Friday evening.
The suspect, identified as Paul Mutazindwa, a security guard attached to GT Expert Security Group, reportedly opened fire inside the police premises at around 5:00 p.m., triggering panic among officers and civilians present. During the exchange, Police Constable Duncan Bainomugisha, attached to Fort Portal Police Station, was fatally shot.
Rwenzori Regional Police spokesperson Vincent Twesigye said the suspect was later gunned down after he refused to surrender his weapon despite repeated commands.
“It was at around 5pm when the incident happened. The suspect, Mutazindwa, was gunned down because he refused to surrender after opening fire. Two people died in this incident, including the late PC Duncan Bainomugisha. Five officers inside the building were safely rescued, and no other injuries were registered,” Twesigye said.
Authorities confirmed that two individuals were arrested in connection with the shooting, although their identities and possible roles are still under investigation. Police said inquiries are ongoing to establish the motive behind the attack and the circumstances that led to the tragic loss of life.
The Fort Portal incident has once again brought into sharp focus the increasing number of shootings involving private security personnel across Uganda. In recent years, several fatal encounters linked to armed guards have raised questions about recruitment standards, mental health screening, firearm handling, and supervision within private security firms.
Security analysts and civil society organisations are now calling for stricter vetting, enhanced training, and tighter regulation of private security companies to prevent similar tragedies. As investigations continue, the nation mourns the loss of PC Bainomugisha, while renewed calls grow for urgent reforms to ensure public safety.
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