12 Suspects Arrested in Mbarara Over Trafficking of 63 People from Arua

The Police in Mbarara City Central Division have detained 12 suspects in connection with a case of human trafficking involving 63 victims aged between 17 and 30 years. The victims, all from Arua District, were lured under the pretext of being offered employment opportunities.

According to SP Kasasira Samson, the PRO for Rwizi Region, the suspects allegedly charged each victim fees ranging from 120,000 to 1.5 million shillings, promising them jobs in Mbarara City. However, upon arrival, the victims were confined in rooms in Kisenyi and Rwentondo cells in Kakoba Division and coerced into luring their friends to join the alleged company.

Kasasira revealed that, by the time of their rescue, the victims had been confined for periods ranging from one day to over 60 days.

The suspects are currently in police custody, and authorities are working closely with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to ensure the victims are reunited with their families.