Kanungu, Uganda – A joint operation by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Uganda Police Force has resulted in the re-arrest of a key suspect in the 2019 kidnapping of an American tourist.
Derrick Memory, 30, from Karukara trading center in Rukarara village, Kihembe Sub-county, Kanungu, was apprehended early this morning, according to a Statement by Major Tabaro Kiconco, UPDF 2nd Infantry Division Public Information Officer.
Memory is alleged to have been involved in the April 2, 2019 incident where American tourist Kimberly Sue Endecott and her driver were taken hostage at the Katooke gate along the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park in Kanungu District. A ransom of $500,000 was reportedly demanded for their release. Ms. Endecott was later released after a portion of the ransom was paid.
Derrick was first arrested with one of the accomplices and released before he reportedly re- joined the group.
Following his release, Derrick Memory is believed to have fled to the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where he is suspected to have been operating in close coordination with armed criminal gangs in Buganza, Nyamirima, Kasoso, and as far as Goma. He has been among those sought in connection with the crimes committed during the abduction.
During his arrest around 3:00 AM today, wild animal products and military items were discovered in his possession. Authorities have been monitoring his movements since April 2019, noting that he had been entering Uganda through porous border areas such as Rwamagali and Bukunkulima.
However, reports indicated that four individuals were involved. The other two accomplices, who were armed, have not yet been apprehended but are believed to be operating along the Uganda and DRC border. It is alleged that Derrick Memory joined them until his re-arrest.
“He will provide us with useful information on cross-border activities of a criminal nature which have a bearing on our border security,” stated Major Tabaro Kiconco. He added a stern warning to those with criminal intentions targeting tourism: “Those with criminal intent on our tourism will be dealt with decisively.”
Major Kiconco also appealed to communities residing near National Parks and other critical areas to refrain from activities that endanger wildlife or sabotage tourism, emphasizing that such actions are punishable under Ugandan law.
Meanwhile , Major Kiconco affirmed that the border with the DRC and the National Parks remain peaceful, with normal activities proceeding without disruption.