Police in Kasangati, Wakiso District are holding a Pentecostal pastor of Christ Way Generation Ministries as investigations continue into a suspected human trafficking case following the rescue of 37 children allegedly lured from different parts of Uganda with promises of bursaries and scholarships.
The cleric was arrested after a police operation in Kabaga-Kayaanga Zone, Kiteezi Ward, Wakiso District.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Racheal Kawala, the operation was launched after residents reported suspicious activities at a rented building where the children were allegedly being housed.
‘Police intervened and rescued 37 children who are now in safe custody,’ SP Kawala said.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect allegedly recruited children from various districts across the country by promising educational sponsorship opportunities through his institution.
Police say the promised bursaries and scholarships were allegedly never provided, raising suspicions of exploitation and possible human trafficking.
The rescued children, aged between seven and 20 years, include learners ranging from Primary One to Senior Five. Of the victims, 23 are female and 14 are male.
Authorities said the children were recruited from several districts, including Luweero, Kamuli, Buyende, Kole, Apac, Jinja, Kikuube and Napak.
Investigators are now seeking to establish how the children were recruited, transported and accommodated at the facility, as well as whether additional suspects may have been involved.
The victims have been placed under protective care while efforts are underway to trace their families and facilitate reunification.
SP Kawala commended residents whose information led to the operation.
‘We commend members of the public for the timely information that led to this rescue. We continue to urge parents and guardians to be cautious when entrusting their children to individuals or organisations offering scholarships or educational opportunities,’ she said.
Police have opened investigations into suspected human trafficking and child exploitation, while the suspect remains in custody pending further inquiries.