Police Arrest 12 Senior One Students Over Viral Assault of Teenager in Kampala
The suspects, all minors, include a 16-year-old identified by police as the prime suspect, who is seen in the circulated footage punching the victim. Preliminary investigations have established that the other suspects are aged between 14 and 17 years.
Police in Kampala have arrested 12 Senior One students in connection with the assault of a fellow teenager in Nakibinge Zone, Kibuli Parish, Makindye Division, Kampala District, after a video of the incident circulated widely on social media.
The suspects, all minors, include a 16-year-old identified by police as the prime suspect, who is seen in the circulated footage punching the victim. Preliminary investigations have established that the other suspects are aged between 14 and 17 years.
According to the Uganda Police Force, the arrests were conducted on September 17 and 18, 2026, during an intelligence-led operation by officers from Kabalagala Police. The final arrests were made at approximately 2:00am on Friday, September 18, in Nakibinge Zone.
Police said preliminary investigations indicate that the assault took place on September 13, 2026, at about 6:00pm, in the same area.
The incident came to public attention after a video showing a group of boys attacking their fellow teenager was shared on social media. Police subsequently launched efforts to identify and apprehend those involved.
The victim, who is also approximately 16 years old, is currently staying at his mother's residence in the same locality, where he is receiving medical treatment, according to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Racheal Kawala.
The 12 suspects remain in police custody as investigators work to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the specific role played by each of them.
Police have not disclosed the identities of the minors, in line with the fact that they are children and the case is still under investigation.
Police stress juvenile procedures
The Uganda Police Force has condemned the assault, particularly because it involved minors, and said the suspects will be handled in accordance with the law and procedures applicable to juvenile offenders.
Police said the investigation will establish whether and how each of the arrested students participated in the incident before further action is taken.
“The Uganda Police Force strongly condemns acts of violence, particularly those involving minors,” Kawala said, reaffirming the Force's commitment to protecting the safety and dignity of all persons.
She added that individuals found to have engaged in unlawful conduct would be dealt with in accordance with the law and the applicable procedures governing juvenile offenders.
The case comes amid continued police efforts in Kampala to respond to incidents brought to their attention through intelligence and information circulating on social media. Earlier this month, Kabalagala Police conducted intelligence-led operations in parts of Makindye Division targeting suspected criminal activity.
For now, police say investigations into the Nakibinge assault remain ongoing, with further updates expected as more information becomes available.
Source: Uganda Police Force.
John Kusolo is a Pastor, Sports Enthusiast and Ugandan journalist with Nile Chronicles News (NCN). With a strong commitment to journalistic excellence, he is recognized for his dedication, goal-oriented approach, and ability to thrive in challenging environments. Kusolo brings focused motivation and professionalism to his reporting and media assignments.
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