Police and other security agencies have arrested three suspects in connection with the kidnapping of two children from Bujowali Zone in Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District.
The suspects were arrested on 17 September 2026 following a joint security operation that also led to the recovery of the two children.
Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke identified two of the suspects as Odongo Richard and Derick Nkuruziza. Security officers also recovered a firearm believed to have been used in criminal activities.
The third suspect, identified as Kasaija Dan, is alleged to have been the overall commander of the group. Police said he was responsible for receiving and withdrawing ransom money in Kampala.
The incident happened on 7 September 2026 at about 7:00 p.m. when two armed and masked men allegedly raided the home of Mugabanya in Bujowali Zone. Mugabanya was away from home at the time, while his children were watching television under the care of domestic workers.
The attackers allegedly injured the domestic workers after they raised an alarm before locking them in a bedroom. They then reportedly fled with two of the children.
The kidnappers later demanded a ransom of Shs100 million for the children’s release.
Police opened a kidnapping case and launched a joint investigation to track down those responsible. On 17 September, the security team recovered the children from Malindi Village in Wakisi Sub-county, Buikwe District. Police said the children were found safe.
The three suspects are also being investigated over their alleged involvement in other kidnapping cases, including the abduction of a female school director in Njeru Municipality in May 2026.
Police said investigations are continuing to establish whether other people were involved in the kidnapping. The suspects remain in custody and will be processed in accordance with the law.
