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Derrick Memory has been arrested by joint security officials
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Kanungu
Joint security forces comprising the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Uganda Police have arrested a key suspect involved in the 2019 kidnapping and hostage-taking of American tourist Kimberly Sue Endecott. The incident occurred on 2nd April 2019 at Katooke Gate, along the Ishasha Sector in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kanungu District.
The suspect, Derrick Memory, 30, a resident of Karukara Trading Centre, Rukarara Village in Kihembe Sub-county, Kanungu District, was apprehended early this morning in a coordinated operation. He is alleged to have played a direct role in the abduction of the American tourist and her driver, during which a ransom of USD 500,000 was demanded.
Following the crime, Derrick fled Uganda and had been hiding in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where he reportedly collaborated with armed criminal gangs in areas including Buganza, Nyamirima, Kasoso, and as far as Goma. Intelligence reports indicate he had been actively crossing back into Uganda through porous border points in Rwamagali and Bukunkulima, with his movements under surveillance since April 2019.
During the arrest at approximately 0300 hours, security personnel recovered wild animal products and military equipment in his possession. Authorities believe he has been involved in various cross-border criminal activities, posing a significant threat to regional security.
Derrick is expected to provide valuable intelligence regarding cross-border crimes affecting national security, particularly along the Uganda–DRC border.
“We want to send a clear message to those with criminal intentions against our tourism sector — they will be dealt with decisively,” said Maj. Kiconco Tabaro, Public Information Officer for the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division, confirming the arrest.
He also urged communities near national parks and other sensitive areas to refrain from engaging in activities that endanger wildlife or undermine tourism, warning that such acts are punishable under Ugandan law.
Following the 2019 incident, the kidnapped tourist was eventually released after part of the ransom was paid. Derrick was initially arrested and charged in the Rukungiri court. At the time, four suspects were involved; two armed accomplices remain at large and are believed to operate between Uganda and the DRC. It is alleged that Derrick later rejoined these accomplices before his recent re-arrest.
Authorities emphasize that, despite isolated incidents, Uganda’s borders with the DRC and the national parks remain peaceful, with regular activities continuing without disruption.
Torch Media Africa
