The accused include Martin Muwonge, Hakim Bwire, Paul Sseremba, Ezra Kawanda, Fred Ssali, Simon Geserwa, Godfrey Kasule, Vivian Nakitende, Mohammed Waswa, Grace Nayebale, Shafiq Musisi, Shakuru Lubega, and Simon Ssuuna.

Police believe the incident was robbery-related, with Owori’s mobile phone among the property taken from him. The stolen phone subsequently became a key lead in the investigation. Detectives traced the device, leading to the arrest of the first two suspects before expanding the probe to individuals believed to have handled or purchased it.

The investigation has also uncovered meetings that were allegedly scheduled in Germany, which detectives believe were intended to buy time while reinforcing the impression that the transaction was genuine.

According to the police, preliminary investigations indicate that the teenager had been posting videos containing vulgar and offensive language, which investigators believe amounted to incitement to violence and the promotion of sectarianism. Police also described the content as inappropriate, particularly given the suspect’s age.

The kidnappers held her captive for nearly three weeks, demanding up to $1 million before accepting about $200,000 (approximately UGX 700 million). During her captivity, they cut off two of her fingers and sent them alongside a video of her pleading for help to pressure her family into paying the ransom.

“It is illegal for private individuals to install sirens or use escort vehicles to force their way through traffic. The right of way is only provided for the State motorcade, the Vice President, the Prime Minister, the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker, the Chief Justice, ambulances and emergency military vehicles. Ministers do not have the legal right of way,” Kananura noted.

“The two drivers have since been charged with the relevant traffic offenses and are currently detained at Kampala CPS pending appearance before court and Police is working with the school management to ensure pupils are safely transported to their destination using appropriate means of transport,” Kananura said.