KAMULI — Police in the Busoga North region have launched a manhunt for a primary suspect following the brutal killing of a 13-year-old boy who was allegedly lured from his home under the guise of employment.
The victim, identified as Fred Bwoya, a resident of Butaasa Village in Buyende District, was reportedly taken by a family acquaintance named Mande on Thursday, February 19, 2026. Mande had allegedly promised the minor a job cutting sugarcane in Bulopa Sub-county, Kamuli District.
A Deceptive Trap
The boy’s mother, Sylvia Nakisuyi, told authorities she was initially informed on Friday that her son had been involved in an accident. However, upon arriving in Kamuli to check on him, she was met with the devastating discovery of his body.
Preliminary Police Findings:
The minor was stabbed to death by unknown assailants shortly after arriving in the area.
One suspect—the brother of the recruiter—has been arrested to assist with ongoing investigations.
The prime suspect, Mande, remains at large.
Legal and Safety Warnings
The Busoga North Police spokesperson confirmed that the body was taken to Kamuli General Hospital for a post-mortem before being released to the family for burial.
Authorities have issued a stern warning to the public regarding the dangers of illegal child labor and deceptive job offers. Under Ugandan law, employing minors is a criminal offense, and police have urged parents to be extremely vigilant and verify any employment claims before allowing children to leave their care.
“Investigations into the motive behind this senseless killing are ongoing, and security agencies are intensifying the search for the main suspect,” a police source stated.
