Kampala, Uganda – Police in Katwe have apprehended a 21-year-old housemaid, Kansiime Mary, and her 25-year-old Congolese boyfriend, Policarpe Bulambo, along with several accomplices, for allegedly orchestrating the kidnapping of a 3-year-old girl with the intention of extorting ransom.
According to the deputy public relations officer of Kampala metropolitan police Luke Owoyesigyire, the tragic incident was reported to police on September 28, 2024 by the child’s father Byakagaba Jean-Claude, a 36-year-old Congolese refugee and businessman.
Preliminary report indicates that, at around 12:00pm on 28th of September, Mr. Byakagaba and his wife left their residence, leaving behind their 3-year-old child, Kasemire Jane, and their maid, Kansiime Mary, aged 21 years.
“Later that day, attempts to reach the maid by phone were unsuccessful.” Owoyesigyire outlined
Owoyesigyire highlighted that at around 9:00pm, the victim’s father Byakaba received a phone call from unknown individual using the maid’s phone. “The caller claimed to have both the child and the maid in Sudan and demanded a ransom of UGX 20 million.” Said Owoyesigyire
“Through police intervention, both Kansiime and her boyfriend, Policarpe Bulambo, a 25-year-old Congolese resident of Nakinyuguzi Zone, Luwafu Parish, were arrested along with two other accomplices.” He further disclosed
Key findings suggested that, the maid Kansiime Mary, who had been employed by the complainant for approximately 10 months, conspired with her boyfriend, identified as Policarpe Bulambo, to stage the kidnapping.
“The child, Kasemire Jane, was safely recovered, medically examined, and returned to her parents.” Said Owoyesigyire
He revealed that the suspects are currently being held in a police custody and will be prosecuted accordingly.
He however, urged parents and members of the general public to exercise maximum vigilance including making of background checks on domestic workers before employing them in the homes. “We also urge the public to promptly report similar incidents to the police for swift action and investigations.” He emphasized
