Police rescue 18 children in Wakiso, arrest 2 over suspected human trafficking

Police in Wakiso District have rescued 18 children and arrested two suspects in connection with a suspected human trafficking case following an operation in Kakunyu Village, Wakiso Town Council.

According to Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke, the operation was conducted on June 21, 2026, after local leaders alerted authorities about a residential house that was reportedly accommodating an unusually large number of young children.

The information was first received by officers at Namusera Police Post from Local Council leaders in Kakunyu Village, who raised concerns about the presence of several children aged between three and 12 years living under suspicious circumstances.

Acting on the tip-off, police officers, working together with local leaders and community members, conducted a raid on the premises.

During the operation, officers found 18 juveniles—nine boys and nine girls—living in two rooms. Preliminary investigations suggest that the children had allegedly been transported from the districts of Luwero and Masindi under circumstances that are yet to be fully established.

Police subsequently arrested two suspects identified as Mulindwa George, 33, a teacher by profession, and Babirye Madinah, 24, a casual worker.

The two are currently being held in police custody as investigations continue into allegations of trafficking in persons and related offences.

“The rescued children have been placed under protective care while inquiries continue,” Rusoke said in a statement.

He added that authorities are working with child protection and social welfare agencies to establish the identities of the children’s parents or guardians and determine how they ended up at the residence.

The case has raised concerns about the vulnerability of children to trafficking and exploitation, particularly those moved across districts without clear documentation or parental supervision.

Police have appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving children to the nearest police station or local authorities.

Law enforcement officials also warned individuals against engaging in child trafficking and other forms of child exploitation, noting that offenders face serious criminal penalties under Ugandan law.

Parents and guardians whose children may be missing under unexplained circumstances have been urged to report to the nearest police station for assistance and possible linkage to the ongoing investigation.

The rescue operation forms part of broader efforts by security agencies and community leaders to combat human trafficking and strengthen child protection mechanisms across the country.

Investigations into the matter are ongoing.