Suspect detained after morning assault
Four young children, aged approximately two and three years old, were killed in a knife attack at a nursery school in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, according to police. The victims, three boys and one girl, died at the scene.
A 39-year-old man has been taken into custody and is being questioned as authorities work to determine his motive and background. In a statement, the Uganda Police Force said investigations are ongoing to clarify the circumstances surrounding what officials described as a “heinous crime.”
Attack followed enrollment inquiry
Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala said the suspect had visited the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Program School earlier in the week to inquire about enrolling a child. He was asked to return on Thursday.
According to Kawala, the man paid admission fees before carrying out the attack. The incident occurred shortly before 11:00 a.m. local time, when officers responded to a distress call from the school.
Parents attempted to confront suspect
Authorities reported that some parents, distressed by the events, attempted to confront and assault the suspect before police intervened and secured his arrest. Videos circulating on social media showed large crowds gathered outside the school, with many appearing visibly shaken as they sought information about their children.
Ten other children who were present at the time of the attack were safely returned to their families, police confirmed.
Investigation underway in Ggaba suburb
Investigators remain at the scene in the Ggaba suburb of Kampala, which has been cordoned off. Uganda’s police chief, Abas Byakagaba, visited the school and urged the public to remain calm as inquiries continue.
As evening approached, the atmosphere outside the school was subdued, with staff members gathered nearby while authorities carried out forensic examinations.
The incident has prompted widespread concern about school safety across the country, with officials expected to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
