Uganda Police have successfully arrested a notorious child kidnapping suspect, identified as Odongo Isaac, in connection with a string of abductions reported across Kampala. The suspect is believed to be behind multiple cases involving young children, prompting swift action from the police.
On 2 May 2026, the Flying Squad carried out an intelligence-driven operation targeting several kidnapping incidents. The cases involved three young boys—Kasirye Ethan (5), Kalenzi Joram Yosam (6), and Kibira Ramathan (5)—from different parts of Makerere and Kawempe Divisions. The cases were officially recorded under CRB 468/2026 (Old Kampala), CRB 485/2026 (Old Kampala), and CRB 200/2026 (Wandegeya).
Through advanced policing technology and careful tracking, authorities located and apprehended Odongo Isaac on 4 May 2026 at approximately 6:00 PM in Nankulabye Zone 7. The arrest ended a tense period of fear among parents and residents affected by the abductions.
During interrogation, the suspect confessed to abducting the three children on separate dates between 28 April and 2 May 2026. Odongo Isaac revealed that he demanded ransom from the parents of each child. He disclosed that he abducted Kalenzi Joram from Kasubi on 28 April and later abandoned him near Jinja Bridge after failing to receive payment.
The suspect further admitted that on 30 April, he kidnapped Kasirye Ethan from Nankulabye and transported him to Lira. He then returned to Kampala and abducted Kibira Ramathan from Makerere on 2 May, detaining him while demanding ransom. The police report notes that Odongo Isaac released Kibira Ramathan on 3 May after receiving UGX 40,000 from the child’s mother, leaving him in Kalerwe at around 11:00 PM.
Two of the three victims, Kalenzi Joram and Kibira Ramathan, have since been safely recovered from Njeru and Kalerwe, respectively. Kasirye Ethan, who had been abandoned in Lira, is reportedly being assisted by Lira City West Police, and arrangements are ongoing to ensure his safe return to Kampala.
Authorities have confirmed that investigations into the matter remain ongoing, as they work to establish whether there are any accomplices involved. The Uganda Police Force continues to assure the public of their commitment to safeguarding children and swiftly bringing perpetrators to justice.
This successful operation highlights the growing effectiveness of intelligence-led policing in Uganda. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, as the police emphasize that protecting children remains a top priority.
