The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has officially confirmed the detention of Rev. Fr. Deusdedit Ssekabira, a Catholic priest of Masaka Diocese, a day after the Church reported his disappearance and raised alarm over what it described as a kidnapping.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col. Chris Magezi, said Rev. Fr. Ssekabira was arrested by security forces over alleged involvement in violent subversive activities against the state.
“This is to confirm that Rev. Fr. Deusdedit Ssekabira of Masaka Diocese was recently arrested by the security forces for involvement in violent subversive activities against the state,” the statement reads.
“Rev. Fr. Ssekabira is currently in lawful custody to assist with further investigations into the matter. He will be produced in the courts of law and charged accordingly.”
The confirmation comes after days of heightened concern within the Catholic Church following reports that the priest had been abducted by men allegedly dressed in military uniform on December 3, 2025, in Katwe, Masaka City.
At the time, Masaka Diocese said all efforts to trace his whereabouts had failed, prompting calls for prayers and legal action.
Rev. Fr. Ssekabira serves as a curate at Bumangi Parish and is the Director of Uplift Primary School in Masaka City.
His disappearance had sparked fear and uncertainty among clergy, the faithful, and his family, with the Diocese describing the incident as a “grievous wound” to the Church.
Following the UPDF statement, attention has now shifted to the legal process, with security officials emphasizing that the priest is being held lawfully and will be presented before court.
The military did not provide details regarding the nature of the alleged subversive activities, citing ongoing investigations.
Church leaders are yet to issue a detailed response to the UPDF statement, though sources within the Diocese say they are closely following developments and are prepared to engage legal counsel to ensure that justice is upheld.
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