Two Men Remanded Over Kidnap and Murder of Former Buganda Katikkiro’s Daughter

WAKISO, Uganda — Two men accused of kidnapping, robbing, and murdering Babirye Lydia, the daughter of a former Buganda Katikkiro, have been remanded to Kigo Government Prison pending further investigations.

The suspects, identified as Abubakari Ntege, 32, a welder from Kiteredde Village in Kakiri Town Council, and Shafic Kagga, 26, a boda boda rider from Nakuwadde Village in Bulenga, appeared before the Wakiso Chief Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

Chief Magistrate Naume Sikhoya read three charges against the duo, including kidnapping with intent to procure a ransom, aggravated robbery, and murder.

Suspects Accused of Demanding Shs19 Million Ransom

According to the prosecution, the alleged crimes occurred between June 3 and June 4, 2026, in Kiteredde Zone, Kakiri Town Council, Wakiso District.

Court heard that the suspects allegedly abducted Babirye Lydia and held her against her will while demanding a ransom of Shs19 million from her family in exchange for her release.

Prosecutors further stated that after the alleged kidnapping, the suspects robbed the victim of several personal belongings, including two mobile phones, two ATM cards from Absa Bank and Centenary Bank, a national identity card, and MTN and Airtel SIM cards.

Murder Charges Filed

The prosecution also alleges that the suspects later murdered Babirye Lydia with malice aforethought.

State prosecutor Peninnah Joy Nakaweesa informed the court that investigations into the case are still ongoing and requested more time to gather and consolidate evidence.

Chief Magistrate Sikhoya explained that the court does not have jurisdiction to hear capital offences such as murder and aggravated robbery. The matter will therefore continue through mention hearings before being committed to the High Court for trial.

Remanded Until July 8

Following the court proceedings, the two accused were remanded to Kigo Government Prison until July 8, 2026, when they will return to court for further mention of the case.

The case has attracted significant public attention due to the victim’s connection to one of Buganda Kingdom’s most prominent families and the disturbing circumstances surrounding her alleged kidnapping and murder.

Authorities have indicated that investigations remain active as detectives continue to gather evidence related to the case.