Police in Matugga have successfully recovered a three-year-old girl who had allegedly been kidnapped following a swift operation that also led to the arrest of two suspects connected to the incident.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Rachael Kawala, the incident was reported after the child disappeared from her home earlier on Sunday.
“It is alleged that on March 8, 2026 at about 12:00pm, the child left home to play with friends in the neighbourhood but did not return. Her mother searched for her in vain,” Kawala said.
Police said that later the same day at around 6:00pm, the child’s grandmother received a WhatsApp message containing a photograph of the missing girl.
The sender allegedly demanded Shs40 million as ransom in exchange for the child’s release.
Following the report, a case of a missing child was immediately opened at Matugga Police Station and search efforts commenced without delay.
Investigations led to the arrest of two suspects identified as Godfrey Selwanja and Shakib Ntege.
Police later recovered the child from Kayilira Village, Buwambo Ward in Gombe Division, Wakiso District, at the residence of one of the suspects, Shakib Ntege.
In a telephone interview with Nile Post, Kawala said police managed to track the suspect, leading to the successful rescue.
The child was immediately rushed by the police task team for medical examination and attention following her recovery.
Police have since cautioned parents and guardians to remain vigilant and closely monitor their children to prevent similar incidents.
“We would like to caution parents and guardians to closely monitor their children and remain vigilant in order to prevent such incidents of abuse and ensure their safety,” Kawala added.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
