KAMPALA, April 9 (Xinhua) -- Ugandan security forces have arrested a number of suspects in connection with the kidnap of an American tourist and her guide who were freed over the weekend in the western district of Kanungu.
A joint security team arrested the suspects over the kidnap of Kimberly Sue Endicott and her tour guide, Jean Paul Mirenge, police spokesperson Fred Enanga said in a statement on Tuesday.
The spokesperson did not disclose how many suspects were arrested, saying that may jeopardize the ongoing investigations.
"The intelligence-led operation, which was calculated and tactical... is now progressing unhindered, with raids and extensive searches in Kanungu district, where the suspects were arrested and in the neighboring areas," Enanga said.
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni on Monday assured tourists of their safety in the country, noting that the security in national parks will be enhanced.
Museveni tweeted that tourists should come and enjoy the beauty of the east African country.
Endicott and her driver were kidnapped by unknown gunmen on Tuesday last week at Queen Elizabeth National Park in western Uganda. They were freed over on Sunday.
According to police, the kidnappers had asked for a ransom of 500,000 U.S. dollars.
