Police probe suspected kidnap after two children go missing in Wakiso

Wakiso, (UG):- The Territorial Police in Kampala Metropolitan is actively investigating a suspected case of kidnapping following the disappearance of two pupils from Uganda Martyrs Junior School, Kikokiro, in Wakiso District.

The missing children, Ainembabazi Irene, a 9-year-old girl, and Nuwabasa Elisa, a 5-year-old boy, were last seen on 21st February 2025 at the school premises along Kassegejje Road.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the children may have been abducted after they were seen leaving the school. It is believed the suspected kidnappers could have headed towards Nansana, though no further details have been confirmed.

But Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Spokesman ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, said the children reportedly disappeared from the school premises under unclear circumstances, raising concerns about security at the institution.

“Our findings indicate that Uganda Martyrs Junior School has over 400 students but only one security guard. Additionally, part of the school remains unfenced, making it easy for children to leave unnoticed,” he noted.

Mr Owoyesigyire also revealed that Ainembabazi and Nuwabasa had previously been pupils at a school in Kiruhura District, where they had a history of attempting to escape. In an effort to curb this behavior, their parents had transferred them to Uganda Martyrs Junior School, hoping the change in environment would prevent such incidents.

“Given their past record, there is a suspicion that the children could have escaped. However, we remain open to all possibilities and will update the public should new information arise.”

The The KMP Deputy publicist said police authorities, working together with the school and the families of the missing children, have launched a coordinated search effort to locate them.

Police authorities have urged the public to stay alert and assist in the search. “We urge parents and school administrators to remain vigilant and ensure that children are safe at all times. Any information related to missing children should be promptly reported to law enforcement,” Owoyesigyire said.

This incident comes amid a troubling rise in pupil abductions in Kampala and surrounding areas in recent months. In previous cases, such as the kidnapping of a 10-year-old boy in Bwaise last October and the abduction of two schoolgirls from a school in Ntinda earlier this year, police have been quick to investigate and reassure the public. However, the cases remain unresolved, heightening concerns among parents and residents.