The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and Anti-Human Trafficking Department, in collaboration with the Territorial Police in Bulenga – Wakiso, made a significant arrest related to suspected child trafficking on the May 19, 2023.
The suspect, identified as Paul Alitia from Nakuwadde village in Wakiso sub-county, Wakiso district, was taken into custody.
The children involved in the incident were identified as Akampwera Jordan (10), Byamukama Zadoki (11), Akampurira Ebon (9), Baingana Philip (12), Bainomugisha Briton (10), Manzi Henry (11), Tayebwa Alex (9), Nesigamukama Freedom (11), Turinawe Edison (13), Ahumuza Edrick (12), Nyamwiza Miracle (2), and Ampire Treasure (7).
The law enforcement agencies received intelligence that led them to suspect that approximately 13 children were being kept in the residence of the accused. The victims, aged between 8 and 17, were discovered in the suspect’s home, where they had been lured under false pretenses.
“The facts gathered indicate that the police picked intelligence that there were about 13 children being harbored in the home of the suspect on the May 19, 2023 at around 8pm, under suspicious grounds,” Police said in a statement.
The suspect allegedly promised the victims school bursaries at various schools. However, apart from two of the victims, Bashir Ahmed and Kiteta Pius, who attended schools outside Nakuwadde village, the remaining 11 victims were found to be enrolled in different schools within the village. Shockingly, none of the parents or guardians of the victims were aware of their whereabouts or schooling arrangements.
“The Criminal Investigation Directorate – UPF Anti-Human Trafficking Department in coordination with the Territorial Police in Bulenga – Wakiso, have in custody, a one Paul Alitia of Nakuwadde village, Wakiso sub-county in Wakiso district, for suspected child trafficking,” Police said.
Further investigation revealed that the suspect’s home was not registered or licensed as an NGO or shelter home, raising concerns about the legitimacy of its operations. The exact circumstances surrounding the suspect’s alleged deception and the motive behind his actions are still under investigation.
The 13 victims have been placed under the care of a shelter home while inquiries are being conducted to identify their parents or guardians. It is crucial to establish the true identities and backgrounds of the victims to ensure their proper reunification with their families. In the meantime, the rescued children are receiving counseling and rehabilitation to help them recover from the trauma they have endured.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident related to child trafficking, the territorial police in Greater Masaka Bushenyi Region and Sheema made an arrest on the 15th of May 2023. A taxi driver, identified as Byaruhanga Moses, was apprehended while transporting 12 children under suspicious circumstances.
Byaruhanga Moses, the suspect claimed that he was taking the children to a prayer crusade at Bugongi cell in Bugongi town council, Sheema. However, it was later discovered that he had picked up the children from the crusade without the knowledge or permission of their parents and was taking them for a joy ride instead. The taxi, with registration number UAU 647M, was impounded, and Byaruhanga Moses was taken into custody.
The authorities involved in combating child trafficking emphasize their dedication and commitment to dismantling networks involved in these criminal activities. They have urged anyone with information about potential child trafficking situations to contact the Anti-Human Trafficking Desk at CID Headquarters.
These recent arrests and rescue operations demonstrate the collective efforts of joint security agencies to safeguard children from the risks of abuse, torture, and exploitation. Public vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities are essential in combating child trafficking and ensuring the well-being of vulnerable children in society.
