crime 17 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Police Arrest Eight in Kiboga Over Attempted Marriage of 15-Year-Old Girl
Uganda Police in Kiboga District arrested eight individuals, including a 15-year-old student's parents and prospective groom, after stopping a child marriage ceremony. The operation followed a tip-off, with dowry items seized as evidence amid rising concerns over child marriages in rural areas. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/eight-arrested-as-police-foil-attempt-to-marry-off-15-year-old-student-5427352
Police in Kiboga District intervened on April 16, 2026, in Kagoga Village, Kyomya Sub-county, to halt a ‘giveaway’ ceremony for a 15-year-old Senior Three student at Bukomero Secondary School.
Acting on intelligence, officers arrested eight suspects at the scene before the event concluded. The group includes the minor (born December 6, 2010), her parents, the groom, and his parents: Yunus Kiyingi, Robina Luwedde, Allen Namubiru, Mathias Kawuki, Sande David Walulya, Esther Tusibira, and Jacob Kafeero.
Authorities recovered dowry items such as sugar, soap, rice, meat, three gomesis, and two kanzus, now held as exhibits. The suspects face charges of defilement and procuring defilement, with the case file sent to the Resident State Attorney.
Wamala Region Police spokesperson SSP Lameck Kigozi emphasized that marriage below 18 years is illegal in Uganda, urging parents to prioritize education over early unions. This case highlights ongoing child marriage issues in rural areas driven by poverty and traditions.
In 2025, Uganda recorded 10,492 defilement cases, down 14.8% from 2024, with thousands still pending or under investigation.
Source: Daily Monitor