KAMPALA, Uganda — Police have launched investigations into the kidnapping and murder of Babirye Lydia, a 52-year-old resident of Kigowa in Ntinda, whose body was recovered from a suspect’s residence in Wakiso District days after she was reported missing.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Public Relations Officer ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the case was first reported at Old Kampala Police Station on June 4, 2026, after Babirye disappeared under unclear circumstances.
Police said the suspects later contacted the victim’s relatives using her mobile phone and demanded a ransom of Shs19 million in exchange for her release.
“The suspects later contacted her relatives using her phone and demanded UGX 19 million as ransom for her release,” Owoyesigyire said in a statement.
Following the report, a joint security team launched investigations that led detectives to identify two key suspects, Kagga Shafiq and Ntege Abubakar, who are believed to have been involved in the kidnapping.
Police arrested Ntege in Nateete and, during interrogation, he reportedly led investigators to his residence in Kiteredde Village, Kakiri Town Council, Wakiso District.
There, detectives made a grim discovery.
“The victim’s body was recovered in a decomposing state inside the suspect’s house, wrapped in a mattress cover and tied with ropes,” Owoyesigyire said.
Investigators also discovered a grave that had already been dug within the compound and believe it was intended to conceal the body.
The crime scene was documented and processed by forensic teams before the body was transported to KCCA City Mortuary for a postmortem examination to establish the exact cause of death.
Police have since detained both Kagga Shafiq and Ntege Abubakar as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the kidnapping and killing.
Authorities have not yet disclosed a possible motive for the crime or whether additional suspects are being pursued.
“The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue,” Owoyesigyire said, adding that further updates would be provided as inquiries progress.
The case has shocked residents in Kampala and Wakiso, raising concerns over the growing incidence of kidnapping-for-ransom cases reported in recent years.
Police have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may aid ongoing investigations.
