Mukono Bishop condemns Njeru kidnappings, police arrest three suspects
According to police spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke, the suspects, identified as Odongo Richard, Derick Nkuruziza and Kasaija Dan, were arrested on September 17, 2026, in an operation involving police and other security agencies.
Bishop Enos Kitto Kagodo poses with some of the boys who were confirmed. (Photos by Victoria Bugembe Nampala)
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The Bishop of Mukono, the Rt. Rev. Enos Kitto Kagodo, has condemned the rising cases of violence and kidnapping in Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, warning perpetrators that their actions have serious consequences for their families and future generations.
His remarks come amid renewed concern over kidnappings in the area, following the arrest of three suspects in connection with the abduction of two children from Bujowali Zone, Njeru Municipality.
According to police spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke, the suspects, identified as Odongo Richard, Derick Nkuruziza and Kasaija Dan, were arrested on September 17, 2026, in an operation involving police and other security agencies. A firearm suspected to have been used in criminal activities was also recovered.
Police said the children were abducted on September 7 at about 7:00pm when two armed, masked men allegedly attacked the home of Mr Mugabanya while he was away. The children were watching television under the care of domestic workers.
The assailants allegedly injured the workers, locked them in a bedroom and fled with the children before demanding a ransom of Shs100 million.
School children entertaining the bishop during his visit.
Police allege that Kasaija was the group's overall commander and handled ransom payments in Kampala. The suspects are also being investigated over other alleged kidnappings, including the abduction of a female school director in Njeru in May 2026. Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects remain in custody.
Bishop Kagodo made his remarks at St. Abel Primary School in Njeru, Nakibizzi Archdeaconry, during a service at which he confirmed 32 pupils in the Christian faith and prayed for Primary Seven candidates preparing for their final examinations scheduled for November 3 and 4.
During the service, he congratulated the newly confirmed pupils and urged them to remain steadfast in their faith and continue serving God.
He also urged Primary Seven candidates to trust God as they prepare for their examinations, reminding them to remain mindful of their roots and aspirations.
Preaching from Exodus 3:1–8, Bishop Kagodo said God sees the suffering of His people, hears their cries and acts to deliver them. He encouraged the congregation to accept Jesus Christ as their Saviour, saying faith gives people hope and strength to overcome life's challenges.
At the same function, the Archdeacon of Nakibizzi, the Ven. Canon Robert Kiwanuka Mulinde, reminded parents of their responsibility to care for their children, instil good values and guide them towards responsible adulthood.
He said the time and attention parents invest in their children are essential in shaping their character and moral values.
The school's founder, Talemwa Bosses, thanked Bishop Kagodo for his ministry in the Diocese of Mukono and commended the development achieved under his leadership. He also appreciated the Bishop's visit and participation in the pupils' prayer service.
The Bishop's visit was marked by performances from pupils, who showcased their talents through songs and traditional dances, including amaganda and amaggu.