Busia School Director Rescued After Kidnap, Husband Arrested

The Territorial Police in Busia District are investigating a case of kidnap and torture involving a 36-year-old school director, who was allegedly abducted by her husband and held overnight under brutal conditions.

The victim, identified as Nabwire Stellah, a director of Laban Nursery and Primary School in Bachicha Village, Sikuda Sub-county, was reportedly abducted on September 12, 2025, at around 5:00 pm in Mbale main market.

According to police, Nabwire was picked up by an unidentified man on a boda boda and taken to an unknown location, where she was tortured throughout the night. The kidnapper forced her to call her relatives and demand a ransom of Shs10 million, which he later reduced to Shs5 million while continuing the assault.

The incident was first reported by Wabwire Joshua, a 31-year-old businessman and resident of Custom Road in Busia District.

Following a joint operation by the Flying Squad from Bukedi South and Elgon Region, the suspect was tracked and arrested in Bufumbo Village, Mbale City, where Nabwire was rescued. She was found in the suspect’s house in critical condition, with no clothes and bruises on her shoulders.

Police identified the suspect as Mafabi Aziz, believed to be Nabwire’s husband, with whom she has lived for about five years and shares one child. He is currently in custody pending further interrogation.

Bukeddi South Regional Police Spokesperson IP Mugwe J. Moses confirmed the incident, saying inquiries are underway to establish the motive behind the kidnapping.

“The victim was recovered, seriously tortured. Our preliminary findings indicate that the suspect is her husband. Investigations are ongoing, and updates will be provided,” Mugwe said.

Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities in their communities.