Two female health workers at Luwero General Hospital have been arrested after allegedly demanding money from a patient’s family before providing treatment, police have said.
The suspects, identified as Rebecca Nakiwala, an orthopaedic officer, and Margaret Nabikolo, were arrested following an incident involving a woman who was admitted to the hospital’s emergency ward on 14 July after suffering a deep cut to her right leg in an alleged domestic violence attack.
According to Savannah Regional Police spokesperson Sam Twiineamazima, the patient was allegedly denied medical attention because she could not afford the requested payment.
Police said that on 15 July, the two health workers allegedly demanded Shs700,000 from the victim’s brother before treatment could be administered. After failing to raise the full amount, the family reportedly managed to collect Shs300,000, which was handed over to the suspects.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Group and Receive Daily News
“Immediately after receiving the money, the two hospital staff were arrested and searched by the undercover policemen,” Twiineamazima said.
Police said the Shs300,000 was recovered from one of the suspects and has been retained as evidence.
The suspects are being held at Luwero Central Police Station, where a case of alleged extortion has been opened. Investigations are ongoing.
By the time of publication, the management of Luwero General Hospital had not commented on the arrests.
The incident is the latest in a string of alleged extortion cases that have drawn attention to the hospital despite recent government salary enhancements for health workers.
In August 2025, police arrested a medical intern at the same hospital over allegations of extorting Shs250,000 from a patient’s family during childbirth.
A year earlier, the hospital discontinued the internships of two medical students and launched investigations into another health worker over similar allegations of extortion.
This version follows a BBC-style structure by leading with the latest development, providing supporting details and official comments, and ending with relevant background for context.
Also Read: Amama Mbabazi’s Daughter Wanted Over Unpaid Shs 450m Loan
