Woman arrested over suspected child theft in Budaka

Police in Budaka District have arrested a woman suspected of child theft after recovering a three-month-old baby and a fake immunisation card. Authorities are investigating possible aggravated child trafficking charges.

ASP Kyempasa Wilfred, the Police Spokesperson for Bukedi North Region, confirmed the report (Photo/File)

Budaka, Uganda: Police in Budaka District have arrested a woman on suspicion of child theft after community members raised alarm over a three-month-old baby boy found in her custody under unclear circumstances.

The suspect, identified as Nangobi Resty (real name Nagudi Jalia), was taken into custody on February 19, 2026, together with the infant. The case was registered at Uganda Police Force under Budaka CRB 088/2026 at Budaka Police Station.

According to ASP Kyempasa Wilfred, the Police Spokesperson for Bukedi North Region, Nangobi’s arrest followed a complaint by Tanywa Helix, the LC1 Chairperson of Nansanga “B” Village, Nansanga Parish, who alerted authorities after residents suspected the child may have been stolen.

Police officers reportedly visited the suspect’s home, arrested her, and recovered the infant, who had been named Muhamad Kirabira Achil by the suspect. The baby was photographed and temporarily placed under the care of a good Samaritan as investigations commenced.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Nangobi Resty is a concubine of one Mwayi Isima, also a resident of Nansanga Village. Police allege she presented the child to Mwayi as his biological son in a bid to secure increased financial and emotional support.

Further inquiries reportedly traced the baby to Buloba Central Village in Wakisi Sub-County, Buikwe District, where the infant had been under the care of his grandmother, Nyapendi Joice. Police state the suspect is neither the biological mother nor related to the child.

A fake immunisation card and an exercise book were recovered as exhibits during the arrest.

Medical examinations confirmed that the suspect was of sound mind, while the infant also underwent medical assessment.

Trafficking Charges Possible

Police say the biological mother allegedly left the child behind under the pretext of preparing for outside labour (“cheeyo”), raising further child protection concerns.

“Outstanding inquiries include tracing the parents and grandmother for statements, conducting a DNA test to confirm parentage, and submitting the file to the Resident State Attorney for review and possible charges of aggravated trafficking in children,” ASP Kyempasa said.

He added that investigations are ongoing and further updates will be communicated.

The suspect is expected to be produced in court as authorities continue gathering evidence.