By Swift Reporter
A porter at one of the biggest hotels in Kampala has been remanded to prison over the alleged theft of USD 12,000 from a visiting South Sudanese military officer, in a case that has drawn attention to hotel security procedures and handling of guests’ property.
William Ssemata, 39, appeared before the Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Court and was charged with one count of theft. He denied the charge and was remanded to Luzira Prison until May 13, 2026.
The prosecution alleges that the money belonged to Aaron Jeremiah Balla Sudan, a Brigadier General in the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces, who had arrived in Uganda from Malaysia via Entebbe.
According to court records, the officer was carrying approximately USD 12,300, part of which was reportedly given to him for official shopping, including the purchase of a wristwatch. After exchanging USD 300 at the airport, the remaining USD 12,000 was allegedly kept in his luggage.
Court heard that upon arrival at the hotel, the officer’s bags were received and screened by staff, including Ssemata, who had been assigned to deliver them to the guest’s room. Investigators told court that CCTV footage shows the accused handling the luggage and later entering a lift alone. However, the absence of surveillance cameras inside the lift has been cited by prosecutors as a gap in monitoring during a critical period.
A statement from hotel security indicated that internal checks and CCTV review pointed to Ssemata as the only staff member who had direct contact with the luggage at the time the money is believed to have gone missing.
State Attorney Grace Amy told the court that investigations are ongoing as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged theft.
Ssemata was arrested on April 18 and handed over to Central Police Station before being formally charged. Chief Magistrate Rophine Achayo ordered his remand pending further hearing, which is expected to be conducted by Trial Magistrate Ritah Kidasa.
The case highlights the legal process in handling alleged theft involving high-profile guests, as well as the importance of surveillance and accountability in hospitality operations.
WhatsApp/Call: +256 754 137391
