KASSANDA DISTRICT, 17 march 2026– Police in the Wamala Region have launched a manhunt for an unidentified woman who allegedly disguised herself as a medical professional to steal a three-day-old baby from Kiganda Health Center IV.
The daring abduction occurred on Sunday, March 15, 2026, leaving a young couple in distress and raising serious questions about security at the health facility.
According to a statement released by SSP L Kigozi, the Public Relations Officer for Wamala Region, the victims have been identified as Joachim Muhindo and Ruth Nalubowa, residents of Katosi Cell in Kiganda Town Council.
The couple had admitted their newborn daughter to the health center on March 12, following medical complications. After a successful stint in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), the baby was moved to the postnatal ward on March 14 and was awaiting discharge.
The suspect (a woman) reportedly entered the ward on Sunday, blending in by mimicking the behavior of health workers. Witnesses say she moved from bed to bed, inspecting patients and reviewing medical charts.
Upon reaching Nalubowa’s bed, she allegedly claimed the baby’s condition was worsening and informed the mother that urgent medication was required.
The suspect later handed Nalubowa 10,000 Shs and instructed her to purchase the drugs from a nearby pharmacy. While the mother was away following these “medical instructions,” the suspect fled the facility with the infant.
Police Appeal
A formal report has been lodged at Kiganda Police Station. Authorities are now calling on the public for assistance in locating the suspect and the missing child.
”We appeal to anyone in Kiganda Town, Kassanda District, and the Wamala Region at large who may come across a woman with a newborn baby—especially if she was not known to be pregnant—to inform the nearest police station immediately,” stated SSP Kigozi.