KAMPALA, UGANDA — Police in Kampala have arrested a woman accused of severely burning her four-year-old biological daughter with boiling water after allegedly discovering that the child had eaten rice without permission.
The suspect, identified as Zabaki Maklean, was arrested by officers from Jinja Road Police Division after reportedly spending nearly a week in hiding following the alleged assault.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala confirmed the arrest, saying police tracked down the suspect after residents alerted authorities that she had returned to the area.
Child allegedly scalded over rice
According to police, the incident occurred on July 31, 2026, in K3 Village, Nakawa Division, Kampala.
Police allege that Zabaki became angry after discovering that her young daughter had eaten rice while she was away.
The suspect allegedly picked up a kettle containing boiling water and poured it over the child, causing severe burns to both of the girl’s hands.
The alleged assault left the four-year-old requiring medical attention.
Following the incident, the suspect reportedly fled the area and remained in hiding as police began searching for her.
Residents help police track suspect
Police said residents later spotted Zabaki after she returned to the village and alerted authorities.
Officers subsequently tracked her to Kyambogo in Nakawa Division, where she was arrested.
She is currently being held at Jinja Road Police Division as detectives continue gathering evidence into the alleged child abuse incident.
Police said the suspect is expected to be produced in court once investigations are completed and the necessary procedures have been finalised.
Police warn parents against violent discipline
Kawala condemned the alleged assault and urged parents and guardians to exercise restraint when disciplining children.
She warned that acting out of anger can have serious consequences, particularly when young children are involved.
“Parents should desist from acting impulsively and out of anger. Such behaviour is unacceptable and is condemned by the Police,” Kawala said.
The injured child is receiving medical care as investigators continue collecting statements and other evidence relating to the incident.
The case has also renewed calls for parents and guardians to use safe and non-violent approaches when disciplining children.
