Police and Military Intelligence have mounted a massive manhunt for Hillary Byaruhanga, a private security guard accused of killing Kampala businessman Anthony Mutinisa, proprietor of Mutinisa Motors Uganda, in cold blood on Sunday evening.
Kampala Metropolitan deputy police spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire confirmed the suspect, attached to Don World Security Limited, is on the run after fatally shooting Mutinisa at his office on Martyrs Way, Ntinda.
“It is alleged that the security guard robbed the deceased’s vehicle and a bag containing an unspecified amount of money,” Owoyesigyire said, noting that the suspected killer weapon, a SAR rifle with four rounds, was recovered at the scene.
Sources at the scene revealed clear signs of a violent struggle. Window curtains were ripped apart, and the deceased was discovered near the bathroom, suggesting he attempted to hide from his assailant before being shot.
Byaruhanga allegedly stole cash, disabled CCTV coverage by removing video footage, and fled with the businessman’s latest Toyota Land Cruiser V8 SUV.
Colleagues told Police that the guard was not only on Don World Security’s payroll but also receiving a second salary directly from Mutinisa.
Over time, he had been entrusted with errands, taught how to drive, and had access to company operations, factors that cast doubt on speculation that he might have been mistreated at work.
After the murder, Byaruhanga reportedly sent chilling text messages to company staff and to his supervisor at Don World Security around 7pm, saying: “Something bad has happened.”
On Monday, security sources confirmed that the stolen SUV was tracked to Kanungu District, close to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border, raising suspicion that the fugitive intends to cross into Congo.
Military Intelligence has now joined police in the pursuit.
Police condemned the act, stressing the irony that a guard hired to protect turned on his employer.
Authorities urged Ugandans to conduct thorough background checks and strict supervision of security personnel.
Mutinisa, known for running a luxury vehicle hire firm, was a prominent figure in Kampala’s business community.
His murder has intensified calls for tighter regulation of Uganda’s booming but troubled private security sector.
Investigations remain underway.
