Police Arrest Suspected Kidnapper Linked to Series of Child Abductions in Kampala

Police have arrested a suspected kidnapper, Odongo Isaac, in connection with a series of child abductions reported in Kampala.

According to ACP Kituuma Rusoke, the PRO-UPF, Flying Squad teams conducted an intelligence-led operation targeting multiple kidnapping cases involving three juvenile boys. The cases were registered as CRB 468/2026 (Old Kampala), CRB 485/2026 (Old Kampala), and CRB 200/2006 (Wandegeya), on 2 May 2026.

The victims—Kasirye Ethan (5), Kalenzi Joram Yosam (6), and Kibira Ramathan (5)—were abducted from Kasubi Zone 1 and Nankulabye Zone 7 in Makerere Division, as well as parts of Kawempe Division.

Using advanced policing technology, Kituuma said the suspect was tracked and arrested on 4 May 2026 at 1800 hours in Nankulabye Zone 7.

During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to abducting the three juveniles on separate occasions between 28 April and 2 May 2026, during which he demanded ransom from their parents.

He disclosed that he abducted Kalenzi Joram from Kasubi on 28 April 2026 and later abandoned him in Njeru near Jinja Bridge after failing to receive payment. On 30 April 2026, he allegedly kidnapped Kasirye Ethan from Nankulabye and transported him to Lira. He then returned to Kampala and, on 2 May 2026, abducted Kibira Ramathan from Makerere, where he detained him while demanding ransom.

On 3 May 2026, after receiving UGX 40,000 from the child’s mother, the suspect reportedly released the victim and abandoned him in Kalerwe at approximately 2300 hours.

Two of the victims, Kalenzi Joram and Kibira Ramathan, have since been recovered from Njeru and Kalerwe, respectively.

Kasirye Ethan was reportedly abandoned in Lira, a development confirmed by Lira City West Police, and arrangements are underway to ensure his safe return.

Kituuma said investigations into the matter are ongoing.