KAMPALA – In a daring move, police arrested Kato Geofrey on Saturday for allegedly kidnapping 2-year-old Ayan Makanga on October 10, 2024. Geofrey tricked Ayan’s mother, Nyakaisiki Fatumah, into inviting him to her Kireka-Kamuli home in Kira Municipality under the guise of discussing personal matters.
While Nyakaisiki prepared tea, Geofrey seized the opportunity to flee with the child, according to Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police. Later that evening, Geofrey demanded a UGX 150 million ransom via WhatsApp for Ayan’s safe return.
The parents swiftly reported the incident to Kira Division Police, triggering a thorough investigation led by the Crime Intelligence Directorate. Police apprehended Geofrey in Kigarama Village, Kasanda District, and safely recovered Ayan, who was found in good health and reunited with their parents.
Geofrey is currently in police custody, awaiting court arraignment. The successful rescue operation commends the task team’s diligence and the parents’ prompt reporting, which significantly aided rescue efforts.
Child kidnappings are a growing concern in Uganda. The Uganda Police Force’s 2022 Crime Report revealed a 34% increase in child kidnappings, with 1,763 cases reported. Alarmingly, 70% of kidnapped children were aged 0-5 years, and 55% of kidnappings occurred in urban areas.
The Uganda Child Rights NGO Network reports that 1 in 5 children in Uganda is at risk of kidnapping, with 70% taken by strangers and 30% by family members or acquaintances. These statistics underscore the need for vigilance and swift action.
Parents and guardians are advised to remain cautious and report suspicious activities to the authorities immediately. The Uganda Police Force’s Child and Family Protection Unit can be contacted at 112 or 0800 111 222.
Organizations like the Uganda Child Rights NGO Network and the Child Protection Unit provide support and resources for families affected by child kidnapping. Community involvement is crucial in preventing child kidnappings.
