Police in Bukedea District have arrested a woman accused of stealing a three-day-old baby from Atutur Hospital in eastern Uganda. The suspect reportedly took the newborn from the maternity ward while the mother was still recovering after childbirth.
According to police, the woman disguised herself as a caretaker before sneaking away with the baby. Health workers discovered the child missing shortly after and alerted security authorities. A search operation was launched immediately, leading to the arrest of the suspect a few hours later.
The baby was safely recovered and reunited with the mother, who broke down in tears upon seeing her child again. Hospital administrators have since condemned the incident and promised to strengthen security around the maternity ward to protect mothers and infants.
Residents in the area expressed shock and anger over the attempted abduction, calling for harsh punishment for those involved. Police have confirmed that the suspect is in custody at Atutur Police Station and will be charged in court once investigations are complete.
