KASESE, UGANDA – Tensions flared in Kidodo Cell, Kasese Municipality, on Tuesday as residents staged a peaceful demonstration in protest of what they allege is suspicious conduct by the police in the handling of a child disappearance case.
The protest followed the mysterious disappearance of 2-year-old Kismart Mumbere, who was last seen on Friday afternoon in Kidodo Cell. The case was promptly reported to Kasese Central Police Station under reference number SD REF: 02/05/04/2025. However, community frustrations were ignited when a female suspect who voluntarily turned herself in on Monday morning was released on bond the same day.
The swift release of the suspect without the child being recovered has left many residents stunned and outraged. Bwambale Godfrey Luke, the father of the missing child, alongside other residents, voiced strong concerns over what they perceive as negligence and possible foul play.
“How can police free someone linked to child trafficking without producing the child? This is unacceptable!” exclaimed one protester during the demonstration. Many locals believe the child may have been trafficked or harmed and are demanding immediate, transparent action from law enforcement.
In response to the growing public anger, Rwenzori East Regional Police Spokesperson SP Nelson Tumushime confirmed that the suspect was indeed arrested. However, he denied claims of her release, stating that she remains in custody and that investigations into the matter are ongoing.
Despite these assurances, residents continue to accuse the police of a lack of transparency, and some suspect that favoritism or bribery may have influenced the suspect’s initial release. Demonstrators say this incident reflects a deeper issue of public distrust in local law enforcement and highlights broader concerns around child safety in the region.
Kasese has seen a worrying increase in child disappearance cases, contributing to growing community anxiety. Protesters have vowed to maintain pressure on the police until Kismart is found and accountability is ensured.
Community leaders are now taking steps to escalate the issue to higher authorities. Plans are underway to formally engage the office of the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) to push for renewed investigative efforts and ensure justice is served.
