By Our Staff Reporter

Kampala, Uganda – April 2, 2026 – In a shocking and heartbreaking incident that has sent ripples of grief across Uganda, four young children were stabbed to death at the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Program, a daycare facility in Ggaba Parish, Makindye Division, Kampala City. The attack occurred around 11:00 a.m. today, prompting an immediate police response.

A man (identified by police as Okello Christopher Onyu, around 34 years old) gained access to the school by posing as a parent. He attacked young children with a machete/knives, brutally stabbing and killing four toddlers three boys and one girl, aged roughly 1–3 years old.

According to the Uganda Police Force, officers from Ggaba Police Station rushed to the scene following a distress call reporting an individual attacking children. Responding officers arrested the suspect on site. He has been identified as 39-year-old Okello Christopher Onyum (also referred to in some reports as Onyu or Onyun).

Preliminary investigations indicate he gained access to the facility by posing as a parent before launching the assault with a knife. He is currently detained at Kabalagala Police Station and is undergoing interrogation as authorities work to determine his motive, background, and any other circumstances surrounding the attack.

The victims, all pupils at the same daycare, were identified as:
Eteku Gideon, male juvenile, approximately 2 years old
Kaise Alungat, female juvenile, approximately 2 years old
Ignatius Sserwange, male juvenile, approximately 3 years old
Ryan Odeke, male juvenile, approximately 2 years old

All four children tragically lost their lives in the incident. Police have described the event as a “heinous crime,” and the Uganda Police Force has extended its deepest condolences to the affected families.

In an official statement, authorities assured the public that “all efforts are underway to ensure a thorough investigation and justice for the victims.” Further updates will be provided as more details emerge.

Inspector General of Police Abas Byakagaba, along with senior officers including Director of Operations AIGP Mwesigwa Frank, visited the crime scene earlier today. Reports indicate that local residents attempted to confront the suspect, but security personnel intervened to prevent any further violence.

This senseless act has left the community in mourning, raising urgent questions about safety at early childhood centers in the capital.

While the investigation is ongoing, Kampala police spokesperson Rachael Kawala confirmed the brutal nature of the stabbings and reiterated that the suspect acted alone.

As Uganda grapples with this unimaginable loss of innocent young lives, families and residents are calling for stronger protections for the country’s most vulnerable.

The Uganda Police Force has urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing inquiries