In Summary: Police in Oyam District have arrested a 23-year-old man following the recovery of his 17-month-old daughter from a bush, hours after he allegedly took her away from her mother. Investigators have recovered a blood-stained shirt and submitted samples collected from the suspect to the Government Analytical Laboratory for forensic examination as they build a case for prosecution.
Oyam, Uganda — Police in Oyam District have arrested a 23-year-old man over the alleged aggravated defilement of his 17-month-old biological daughter in Abuli Village, Kamdini Sub-county.
The suspect, identified as Okwir Isaac, was arrested after the toddler was reportedly found in a bush the morning after he allegedly took her from her mother and failed to return home with her.
According to preliminary police information, the incident occurred on November 2, 2026, when Okwir reportedly took the child to a nearby trading centre but did not return with her as expected.
His failure to bring the toddler home prompted a search involving family members and concerned community residents.
The search ended the following morning when the child was reportedly discovered in a bush with signs of suspected sexual abuse.
She was subsequently rushed to Atapara Hospital for medical attention.
The circumstances surrounding the child’s disappearance and recovery have since become the focus of a police investigation.
Police confirm arrest, recover exhibits
North Kyoga Police spokesperson SP Patrick Jimmy Okema confirmed the arrest on Friday, saying the suspect was in custody as detectives continued investigating the alleged offence.
“The suspect has been arrested and is currently in police custody as investigations into the matter continue,” Okema said.
Investigators have also reportedly recovered a blood-stained shirt believed to be connected to the incident.
The garment has been taken as an exhibit as detectives seek to establish what happened to the child during the period she was missing.
Samples submitted for forensic analysis
Police have collected samples from the suspect and submitted them to the Government Analytical Laboratory for forensic examination.
The analysis is expected to help investigators establish whether scientific evidence links the suspect to the alleged offence.
“The samples collected from the suspect have been submitted to the Government Analytical Laboratory for examination,” Okema said.
Police have not yet disclosed the results of the laboratory tests.
Case file to be submitted for legal guidance
Okwir remains in police custody as detectives continue gathering evidence.
The case file is expected to be submitted to the Resident State Attorney for legal guidance on the appropriate charges and possible prosecution.
Investigators are expected to establish the sequence of events leading to the toddler’s disappearance, the circumstances in which she was found and whether the available evidence supports the allegations against the suspect.
The suspect has not been convicted of any offence and remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a competent court.
The case has also renewed concerns about child protection, particularly the safety of very young children who depend entirely on adults for their care and security.
At 17 months, the child is unable to independently seek help or clearly communicate the circumstances surrounding an alleged assault, underscoring the importance of prompt medical attention and a careful investigation.
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