Two people have been arrested in Kira Municipality over allegations of keeping a decomposing body in their home for nearly eight months.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, the body is believed to belong to Oliver Nazziwa, a 52-year-old resident of Kito A, Kirinya, who reportedly went missing in October 2022.
Police say Nazziwa’s relatives formally reported her disappearance to the Kira Police Division on April 28, 2026, after an extended search. In their statements, family members identified several individuals they suspected knew her whereabouts, including Rose Nanyonjo, a biological relative of the deceased.
On Monday, detectives from Kira Division arrested two suspects. A subsequent search of the residence led to the discovery of a body, believed to be Nazziwa’s, inside a locked room. Police also recovered clothing identified as belonging to the deceased.
“Our preliminary findings suggest the suspects were operating a cult-like group that discouraged medical treatment and proper burials. The scene was processed, statements were recorded, and the body was taken to City Mortuary for a postmortem examination,” Owoyesigyire said.
Police have cautioned the public against joining or forming illegal cults, warning that such groups pose serious risks to life and will face firm legal action. Investigations into the case are ongoing.
Meanwhile, local leaders and residents have expressed growing concern over the rise of cult-like groups in the area. Musa Mulwana, an area leader, also raised alarm over the increasing presence of unregulated traditional healers.
“The increasing number of traditional healers settling in the community without the knowledge or approval of local leadership over the past few months, and people hiding behind religion, is shocking and worrying for our children. If they can kill a relative and keep the body, then we have a big problem,” Mulwana said.
Michael Ssendawula, another leader in Namugongo, noted that several cult-driven groups are actively operating in the Namugongo, Nsawo area. He said he has reported these concerns to the police, warning that such groups threaten public safety.
Police classify groups that deny members access to medical care and conceal bodies as destructive cults. Authorities say such groups often masquerade as religious organisations while engaging in criminal activities, psychological manipulation, and exploitation-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
