Unveiling disturbing account of sexual exploitation in Lwengo district

In a troubling revelation from Lwengo District, a 14-year-old girl has come forward with allegations against a former Kyazanga police officer, accusing him of impregnating her and abandoning her with a child.

The young victim bravely shared her harrowing experience, detailing how David Okello abducted her on her way home from school and sexually assaulted her in 2023.

Despite seeking help from the authorities by reporting the incident, she faced a shocking turn of events as she was wrongly charged with theft and fraud instead of receiving support.

Even more distressing is the fact that Okello allegedly continued to torment and abuse her, even when she was under police custody, perpetuating the cycle of trauma.

Recalling the traumatic events, the girl tearfully recounted, “I was attacked by Okello on my way back from evening preps. He violated me, leading to my pregnancy.

Despite seeking help from the police, I was not believed. Instead, I was accused of crimes I did not commit and subjected to further abuse by him.”

Furthermore, she revealed that upon approaching Okello’s superior, Pamella Kahuma, for assistance, she was met with indifference and neglect, exacerbating her plight and leaving her in a vulnerable position.

Condemnation of injustice

The young mother, now caring for a two-month-old baby, shared that she was a student at St. Mary’s Primary School in Kyazanga and had to leave her aunt’s home due to safety concerns, facing financial hardships as a result.

The distressing account has sparked outrage within the community, with calls for justice and police accountability echoing through Lwengo District.

Maria Nankuzze, a probation officer in Lwengo, condemned the incident as a clear case of police misconduct and exploitation, pledging to advocate for the victim and her child and demanding decisive action against Okello.

Amidst the growing outcry, local authorities and civil society organizations have rallied behind the victim, offering support and solidarity during this challenging time.

Expressing her fervent desire for justice, the victim asserted, “I seek accountability for Okello’s actions. I want to ensure that no other girl suffers the same fate as I did.”

Challenging official narratives: The call for reform

Masaka Police spokesperson Twaha Kasirye confirmed the assault by their officer but claimed the victim was already pregnant before the assault, stating that she later withdrew the charges against Okello.

The incident has cast a spotlight on the urgent need for reform within law enforcement agencies, prompting calls for enhanced accountability and protection of vulnerable individuals.

In response to the unfolding crisis, Lwengo district chairperson Ibrahim Kitatta emphasized the imperative of police reform to uphold integrity and safeguard the rights of all community members.

As the teenage mother finds refuge in a children’s home in Lwengo, the collective resolve to pursue justice and advocate for systemic change remains unwavering.