Police in Wakiso District have arrested a 38-year-old woman for allegedly torturing her children by beating them and burning them with a hot knife over missing money.
Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson, Ms. Rachel Kawala, identified the suspect as Sophia Nasanga, a resident of Kireka Biira in Nakabugo Parish, Wakiso District.
According to Ms. Kawala, police received information on October 28, 2026, indicating that the suspect had severely battered her two children and inflicted burn injuries using a knife heated on a charcoal stove.
During police interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted to the act, claiming that the children were disrespectful and had stolen Shs 5,000 from her. Ms. Kawala confirmed that Nasanga remains in police custody as investigations continue, pending her appearance in court.
The arrest was initiated after a neighbor alerted local residents to the ongoing abuse. Mr. Paul Lule, a local resident, told this publication that upon receiving the tip-off regarding the children’s ordeal, he immediately notified the police, who responded swiftly and took the suspect into custody.
Local residents expressed outrage over the incident, revealing that it was not the first time the suspect had physically abused the minors. According to community members, Nasanga severely beat the children last month and fled the residence to evade arrest by local leaders.
Residents further disclosed that the father of the children works daily and regularly remits funds to the suspect for child upkeep, but she allegedly diverts the money for her personal use instead of caring for the children.
Incidents of child physical abuse remain a significant concern across the country. According to the Police Annual Crime Report for 2025, authorities recorded a total of 710 cases of child abuse and torture nationwide in 2025, reflecting a slight decline from the 787 cases reported in 2024.