Security agencies in Kampala, working jointly with the Uganda Police Force, have arrested two suspects in connection with the kidnapping and killing of an estates manager who was allegedly held for ransom before being murdered.
The deceased, 52-year-old Lydia Babirye Ssengendo, daughter of the late Paul Ssengendo and relative to former Buganda Kingdom Prime Minister Eng. J.B. Walusimbi, was reportedly abducted under unclear circumstances and later killed after her captors demanded a ransom from her family.
According to the Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, the case was first reported at Old Kampala Police Station on June 4, 2026, after Babirye went missing.
He said kidnappers later used the victim’s mobile phone to contact her relatives, demanding Sh19 million for her release.
“A joint security team immediately launched investigations, leading to the identification and arrest of key suspects connected to the case,” Owoyesigyire said.
Two suspects, identified as Shafiq Kagga and Abubakar Ntege, were arrested following coordinated intelligence-led operations by the security forces. Ntege was reportedly traced to Nateete, where he was apprehended.
During interrogation, Ntege allegedly confessed and led detectives to a residence in Kiteredde village, Kakiri Town Council, Wakiso District, where Babirye’s body was discovered.
Police said the body was found in a decomposing state inside the suspect’s house, wrapped in a mattress cover and tied with ropes. Investigators also recovered an unfinished grave within the compound, which is believed to have been prepared for concealment of the remains.
The scene was processed by forensic teams before the body was transferred to KCCA City Mortuary at Mulago for post-mortem examination.
The police further confirmed that both suspects remain in custody as investigations continue, with additional leads being pursued.
Family recounts final moments
Family members said Babirye left home at around 8:00am on June 3, Uganda Martyrs Day, but never returned.
Her brother, Martin Kaweesi, said the family first became alarmed that evening after her daughter, a recent graduate, reported that she could not reach her mother.
“She later received a call from strangers using her mother’s phone, who confirmed they had her and demanded money,” Kaweesi said.
The family immediately alerted security agencies, who began tracking the victim’s phone signal, which moved through several locations including Lubiri Ring Road and Katwe.
Kaweesi said investigators later struggled to trace the suspects as communication was mainly conducted at night via WhatsApp using the victim’s phone.
He added that after negotiations, the family transferred an initial Sh1 million, followed by Sh7 million, in an attempt to secure her release.
However, shortly after the payments, security operatives intensified the search operations, leading to the arrest of one suspect in Bulenga, who later guided detectives to the Kakiri residence where the body was found.
Another relative, Derrick Musaazi, said the body was still at the KCCA City Mortuary as the family prepared for burial arrangements and prayers at their home in Kigoowa.
Police say investigations into the full circumstances surrounding the kidnapping and murder are ongoing.
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