Mbarara Hospital Rewards Cleaner Who Helped Foil Shs1m Baby Theft Plot

What the report says

Nile Post reports that Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital has rewarded cleaner Charles Begumisa after he helped security teams and police stop an alleged attempt to steal a newborn from the hospital’s maternity ward. The hospital’s Management Board gave Begumisa a new smartphone during a board meeting, with Board Chairman Dr James Mugume presenting the award in recognition of his honesty and vigilance.

According to the report, the incident took place on July 15, 2025, when Ruth Tindimwebwa, 35, allegedly approached Begumisa as he was taking rubbish to the incinerator. She is accused of offering him Shs1 million to help remove a baby boy from the ward. Begumisa instead informed a colleague and reported the matter to hospital security, then worked with security personnel by pretending to cooperate. The suspect allegedly paid Shs160,000 as a deposit before she was arrested between the Surgical Ward and the Adult Oncology Unit.

Nile Post says police recovered baby clothes from the suspect’s bag and kept the marked money and Begumisa’s phone as exhibits. Tindimwebwa was later charged with attempted child theft and remanded to Mbarara Government Prison. Hospital officials used the recognition to encourage staff to report suspicious activity and protect patients regardless of their roles.

The hospital’s Acting Senior Executive Consultant, Dr Deus Twesigye, said MRRH has increased surveillance, including CCTV and closer coordination with security teams, after previous child theft incidents. Officials said the hospital serves more than 30,000 patients monthly, making stronger security systems and staff vigilance important for patient safety.