Security operatives in Uganda, working in coordination with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), have successfully rescued a child who was kidnapped from Mengo, Kampala and taken across the border into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
According to police spokesperson SCP Kituuma Rusoke, the abduction occurred on Monday, July 21, 2025, along Musajja Alumbwa Road in Mengo. The perpetrators later contacted the victim’s family and demanded a ransom of UGX 30 million for the child’s release.
“Our intelligence officers immediately began tracking the suspects, and we were able to trace their movement as they crossed into the DRC,” said Rusoke.
“With the support of the UPDF and in coordination with our Congolese counterparts, we managed to apprehend the key suspect and safely rescue the child.”
The rescued child has since been reunited with their family, while investigations continue.
One of the suspects currently in custody has been identified as Amani Jasteri, a 17-year-old male from Mujore Village, Bunagana Parish, Jomba Subcounty, Rutshuru District, in the DRC.
Rusoke praised the swift inter-agency collaboration that led to the successful operation.
“This rescue demonstrates our resolve and capability to deal with cross-border criminal activity. We will not allow criminals to terrorize our communities and escape justice by crossing borders,” he said.
The suspects face a range of charges including child abduction and attempted extortion.
