On Tuesday, Ugandan police reported the discovery of seventeen human skulls, including those of children, found in boxes within an underground chamber at a suspected shrine in central Uganda.
The grim find was made on Sunday by children collecting firewood near the village of Kabanga, located about 40 kilometers (24 miles) west of Kampala. Local residents informed authorities of the metallic boxes containing what appeared to be skulls, discovered in an underground chamber beneath one of three derelict shrines on a quiet hillside.
According to police, the chamber was well-constructed and more than two meters (seven feet) deep. The remains, which were found in four boxes, are currently undergoing examination to determine their age, sex, and the period of burial. Initial findings indicate that three of the skulls are those of children.
Police spokesperson Karim urged locals to provide any information that might help uncover additional body parts, noting that the presence of skulls suggests other body parts might be present. He also called for public calm as the investigation continues.
The exact circumstances of how the skulls came to be at the site, situated on a steep hill that has hindered the use of heavy machinery, remain unclear. This has slowed the search efforts.
Bruno Serunkuma Mubumbi, a local resident, was notified of the discovery on Sunday and expressed his shock. Restaurant manager Gideon Muhindo described the find as “scary” and “unexpected,” noting its unsettling impact on the community.
Residents reported that the site had previously been used for worship. Police have identified a suspect connected to the site, who is currently on the run. This individual is linked to the murder of prominent traditional leader and entrepreneur Daniel Bbosa in Kampala, a killing allegedly carried out by hired gunmen earlier this year.
Mpigi district, though densely populated, retains a semi-rural character with agriculture as the primary economic activity. Coffee and bananas are significant cash crops and staple foods, and the district is connected to neighboring countries through a major road network.
