Summary:
- Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson, Elly Maate, confirmed the arrests, identifying the suspects as Niwamanya Isaac (24), Tukamushaba Provia (54), the victim’s aunt; Akankwasa Donato (55), and Akankwasa Eric (40), the victim’s father all residents of Rwere village in Kyanamira sub-county, Kabale District.
KABALE: Police in Kabale District have arrested at least four suspected Human Traffickers also accused of commiting conspiracy and defilement of a 16-year-old girl in Kyanamira Sub club.
The Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson, Elly Maate, confirmed the arrests, identifying the suspects as Niwamanya Isaac (24), Tukamushaba Provia (54), the victim’s aunt; Akankwasa Donato (55), and Akankwasa Eric (40), the victim’s father all residents of Rwere village in Kyanamira sub-county, Kabale District.
Maate explained that the suspects are currently detained at Kabale Central Police Station.
“Between September 15 and 19, 2024, the suspects allegedly conspired to recruit, transport, and harbor the girl who is under 18 by abusing their power and exploiting her vulnerability. This was reportedly done for purposes of sexual exploitation, child marriage, and other forms of abuse”. Maate Said.
According to Maate, Niwamanya Isaac entered into a relationship with the victim, promising to marry her after she completed her studies. With the consent of her father and aunt, the girl moved in with Niwamanya, who allegedly began to defile her.
The other suspects allegedly supported Niwamanya’s intentions to marry the victim, agreeing to certain terms set by her father.
However, while staying with Niwamanya, the girl faced mistreatment and eventually returned to her father’s home, where she informed him about the abuse and her desire to return to school.
“Instead of helping, her father and aunt allegedly assaulted her and forced her to return to Niwamanya’s home, further worsening her plight”. He said.
Maate reported that on September 19, 2024, the victim pretended to leave the house to purchase household items but instead escaped and informed a whistleblower of the abuse. The whistleblower then contacted the police.
“Upon receiving the report, police swiftly arrested the four suspects, who are now being held at Kabale Central Police Station”. Maate said.
