Police in the central district of Kassanda are investigating a daring abduction after an unidentified woman, posing as a medical officer, stole a three-day-old baby from Kiganda Health Centre IV.
The incident involves Muhindo Joachim and Nalubowa Ruth of Katosi Cell in Kiganda Town Council, whose newborn daughter was admitted to the facility on March 12, 2026 with postnatal complications.
According to SSP Lameck Kigozi, Police Regional Public Relations Officer for Wamala, the baby was initially placed in the intensive care unit, where she responded well to treatment, and was later moved to the postnatal ward on March 14 pending discharge.
On March 15, the suspect entered the ward wearing a medical officer’s uniform. She reportedly moved around the ward, inspecting patients and their treatment notes before reaching the newborn.
The woman examined the baby’s file and told the mother that her child’s condition had worsened and that medication needed to be purchased from the pharmacy.
"She handed the mother Shs10,000 to buy the drugs. When the mother left the ward, the suspect allegedly seized the opportunity to flee with the infant," Kigozi said.
A report was immediately filed at Kiganda Police Station. Authorities have appealed to residents of Kiganda Town, Kassanda District, and the wider Wamala region to be vigilant.
Anyone who sees a woman with a newborn child, particularly if she was not known to be pregnant, is urged to contact local police immediately.
“We are following all leads to recover the baby safely and bring the suspect to justice,” said Kigozi said.
