crime 19 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Concerns Mount as Prime Suspect in Iganga Child Sacrifice Case Skips Court Appearance
Prison authorities in Iganga failed to produce key suspect Musa Ekye, a traditional healer charged with the ritual murder of 5-year-old Sarah Namutebi, prompting outrage from the victim's family. The case has been postponed to April 14 amid fears of mishandling. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/worry-as-key-suspect-in-iganga-child-sacrifice-case-fails-to-show-up-in-court-5397232
Prison officials in Iganga district did not bring Musa Ekye, the 38-year-old main suspect in the alleged ritual killing of 5-year-old Sarah Namutebi, to court on Thursday. This absence has sparked significant worry among observers.
Ekye, thought to be a traditional healer, faces child sacrifice charges together with Rebecca Nambi, both from Bulanga Town Council. They were scheduled to appear before Iganga Grade One Magistrate Ali Tibenkana for a case mention.
State Attorney Arap Malinga informed the court that Ekye had been moved from Iganga Prison to Kirinya in Jinja, requesting additional time to secure his presence. Magistrate Tibenkana rescheduled the hearing for April 14.
The victim’s father, Baker Musota, who attended the proceedings, expressed deep suspicion over the development. He urged prison authorities to produce the suspect at every trial stage and called on activists fighting child sacrifice to monitor the case closely for justice.
Family members like Rose Nairuba and Amina Namutebi, along with neighbors and witnesses, vowed to keep a close watch, fearing the matter could be poorly handled without scrutiny.
Prosecutors claim the crime took place on January 16, with police and residents recovering crucial evidence such as blood-stained items from a shrine linked to the suspects.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)