Image released by Wild Frontiers tour company on Monday April 8, 2019, shows American tourist Kim Endicott, right, and field guide Jean-Paul Mirenge a day after they were rescued following a kidnap by unknown gunmen in Uganda's Queen Elizabeth National Park. Ugandan police said on Sunday they had rescued Endicott, an American tourist, and her guide, Mirenge, who had been kidnapped by gunmen in a national park. (Wild Frontiers via AP)
Republished April 09, 2019 - 10:21 AM
Original Publication Date April 09, 2019 - 6:11 AM
KAMPALA, Uganda - Ugandan police say they have arrested some people over the kidnapping last week of an American tourist who has since been freed.
Police did not specify how many people were arrested but said they are "actively investigating" the kidnapping which took place on April 2 in a national park.
The victims — Kim Endicott of Costa Mesa, California, and local driver Jean-Paul Mirenge — were freed Sunday.
Police said the hunt for the kidnappers, including "raids and extensive searches," is taking place in southwestern Uganda.
U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Ugandan authorities to find the perpetrators.
The kidnappers had demanded a $500,000 ransom after abducting the two at gunpoint.
Ugandan officials say no ransom was paid, but a tourism operator said that money was paid to secure Endicott's release.
News from © The Associated Press, 2019