Two Remanded Over Murder of Former Katikkiro's Relative

The Wakiso Chief Magistrate's Court has remanded two suspects to prison over the kidnap, aggravated robbery, and murder of Lydia Babirye Ssengendo, a 52-year-old businesswoman and relative of former Buganda Katikkiro J.B. Walusimbi.
The suspects, identified as Abubakar Ntege and Shafiq Kagga, appeared before Chief Magistrate Naume Sikhoya on Monday and were remanded as investigations into the capital offences continue. The case was adjourned to July 8, 2026.


According to police, Babirye was reported missing on June 4 after disappearing under mysterious circumstances from her home in Kigowa, Ntinda. Her abductors allegedly used her mobile phone to contact family members and demanded a ransom of Shs19 million for her release.

A joint security operation involving police investigators tracked down several suspects, eventually arresting Kagga and Ntege. Police say investigative leads linked the duo to the kidnapping, leading to Ntege's arrest in Nateete. During interrogation, Ntege allegedly guided detectives to his residence in Kiteredde Village, Kakiri Town Council, Wakiso District.

At the residence, investigators recovered Babirye's body in a decomposing state. Police said the body was wrapped in a mattress cover, tied with ropes, and concealed inside the suspect's house. Detectives also discovered a freshly dug grave within the compound, which they believe had been prepared for the disposal of the body.

Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire said security agencies launched an intensive search immediately after the family reported the kidnapping. The operation led to the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of the victim's body.

The murder has shocked the public and Buganda Kingdom loyalists, given the victim's family ties to former Katikkiro J.B. Walusimbi. Police say investigations are ongoing and more details could emerge as the case progresses through the courts.
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