Uganda Police in Masaka have arrested a 34-year-old woman accused of torturing a 10-month-old boy left in her care.
The incident, reported under Reference 71/01/11/2024, has sparked widespread outrage after disturbing footage circulated on social media.
According to a police statement, the child, identified as David Yolam Ssemakula, was left with the suspect, identified as Stella Namawanjje, by his mother, Oliver Mbabazi, who resides in Binyonyi A Cell, Nyendo-Mukungwe Division. Oliver, aged 28, reportedly entrusted her son to Namawanjje while she was away for two days.
The report details that Namawanjje allegedly fed the infant with feces and urine, capturing the abuse on her mobile phone. “The phone later landed in the hands of one of her friends, who shared the video online, where it quickly gained attention,” said SP Kasirye, Police Spokesperson for Greater Masaka.
Police were alerted to the incident by AIP Auma Eunice, a Child and Family Protection Unit officer based at Nyendo. In response, law enforcement launched an investigation, leading to Namawanjje’s arrest and the recovery of the phone used in recording the incident.
Kasirye confirmed that a case file has been opened to investigate the allegations. “We are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness and are committed to ensuring justice for the young victim,” he stated.
Authorities continue to hold the suspect as inquiries proceed, with the police urging the public to report any form of child abuse.
