The Police in Wakiso District has arrested two people in connection with the alleged trafficking in persons following the rescue of 18 juveniles in Kakunyu Village, Wakiso Town Council.
According to the Uganda Police spokesperson, ACP Kituuma Rusoke, on Sunday, officers at Namusera Police Post received information from Local Council leaders in Kakunyu Village indicating that a residential house in the area was accommodating an unusually large number of young children, estimated to be between 3 and 12 years of age.
“Acting on the information, Police, in collaboration with local leadership and community members, conducted an operation at the premises. 18 juveniles, nine boys and nine girls were found living in two rooms under suspicious circumstances” he said.
Kituuma noted that preliminary findings indicate that the children were allegedly transported from Luwero and Masindi districts under unclear circumstances.
“Two suspects were arrested and are currently in Police custody, the have been identified as Mulindwa George, a teacher and Babirye Madinah, a casual worker” he said.
Kituuma revealed that the suspects are under investigation for alleged trafficking in persons and related offences.
“The rescued children have been placed under protective care as inquiries continue, including efforts to trace their parents or guardians, in coordination with relevant child protection and social welfare agencies” he said.
Kituuma, strongly cautioned members of the public against engaging in any form of child trafficking or exploitation.
“Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities involving children to the nearest Police station or local authorities” he said.
He urged parents and guardians with missing children under unclear circumstances, to report to the nearest Police station for assistance and possible linkage to this ongoing investigation.
