Confusion has erupted in Kayunga District after a couple who had been searching for their allegedly stolen baby at Kayunga Regional Referral Hospital were arrested by authorities, sparking public concern and mixed reactions.
The incident dates back to July 19, 2025, when 20-year-old Zanula Namulondo Nguna reportedly delivered a baby via surgery at the hospital.
Later, she reported that her newborn had gone missing under unclear circumstances while still admitted at the facility.
Despite efforts by the family to trace the child, they say they left the hospital empty-handed and continued following up with both hospital authorities and security agencies in search of answers.
Nearly ten months later, the couple reportedly went to Kayunga Central Police Station after learning that Police had arrested a woman suspected of child theft, hoping to get updates on the case.
However, the situation took an unexpected turn when Namulondo and her husband, Ivan Sserumansi, 21, were arrested instead.
According to preliminary reports, the mother was later released without charge, while the father was formally charged and remanded on allegations of defilement.
The development has triggered confusion in the community, with residents questioning how the missing baby case became linked to defilement charges against the father.
Local leaders and members of the public have called for clarity and a thorough investigation into both matters, saying the circumstances remain unclear and concerning.
Authorities have not yet publicly explained the connection between the two cases, but police say investigations are ongoing.
Ssezibwa Regional Police spokesperson SP Helen Butoto confirmed that investigators have obtained CCTV footage from Kayunga Regional Referral Hospital, which has been forwarded to police headquarters for further analysis.
The case has also raised renewed concern about security and accountability in health facilities, particularly in safeguarding newborn babies and supporting vulnerable patients.
Community members are now urging police and relevant authorities to expedite investigations to establish what happened and ensure justice for all parties involved.