Residents of Nankurabye Cell, Kagadi District, discovered the body of a four-year-old boy in a pond near Ebenezer Nursery and Primary School after a community search was launched when he failed to return home from school.
The deceased has been identified as Josephat Twinamasiko, a learner at the school and son of Mbonimpa Vian from Ruteete West Cell. Twinamasiko, a boarding pupil, reportedly went missing on Tuesday evening.
Authorities arrested a suspect, John Tugume, 30, from Kanyegaramire Cell, on Thursday. Tugume is alleged to have made phone calls demanding Shs 1 million from the family for the child’s release. He remains in police custody as investigations continue.
Julius Hakiza, spokesperson for the Uganda Police Force in the Albertine region, confirmed the development and urged the public to provide information that could help clarify the circumstances of the boy’s death and identify any other potential suspects.
He also called on school management across the region to strengthen security measures to protect learners.
The discovery left the community in shock. Deo Seziya, the boy’s uncle, said the family and residents had been searching since Tuesday evening and described finding Twinamasiko’s body as devastating.
George Kibirango, LC1 Chairperson of the area, called on school staff and patrons to remain vigilant regarding the safety of children and advised parents to enroll children in boarding schools only when they are old enough to handle such environments.
Jackson Kwesiga, Director of Ebenezer Nursery and Primary School, expressed deep regret over the child’s death. He described the circumstances as suspicious, suggesting the possibility that Twinamasiko was killed and his body subsequently dumped in the pond.
Police have taken the boy’s body to the mortuary at Kagadi General Hospital for a post-mortem examination as investigations continue.