KAMPALA, Uganda — An Italian diplomat was attacked and robbed Monday afternoon by a group of men on motorcycles in the upscale Nakasero neighborhood of Kampala, according to Ugandan police. The diplomat, who has not yet been publicly identified, was hospitalized for treatment following the assault.
The incident occurred around 3 p.m. local time on Lourdel Road, a street known for hosting several diplomatic missions, including the Italian Embassy. Police reports indicate the diplomat was walking from the embassy toward Yusuf Lule Road when he was accosted by six to eight men armed with pangas, a type of machete.
The assailants “attacked, assaulted, and robbed him,” police stated, making off with his iPhone 16 Pro, an Italian bank card, a diplomatic card, and an apartment access card.
During the robbery, the diplomat reportedly called out for assistance from onlookers. An unidentified individual, believed by police to be a security officer, intervened and incapacitated one of the robbers. The remaining attackers then fled the scene, leaving their accomplice and a red motorcycle with registration number UMA 242BC behind.
The injured diplomat was rushed to Medipal Hospital, a private healthcare facility in Kampala, for medical attention. His current condition was not immediately released.
Ugandan police have launched a manhunt for the suspects who escaped and are investigating the incident. The abandoned motorcycle and the apprehended suspect are expected to provide crucial leads in the ongoing investigation.
The Italian Embassy in Kampala, located at Plot 11, Lourdel Road, has not yet issued a public statement regarding the attack. Attacks on diplomats, while rare, raise concerns about security in the capital, particularly in areas typically considered safe.
