Alebtong, Uganda – A UPDF Staff Sergeant has been arrested in Alebtong District for allegedly extorting money from three young girls and sexually abusing them.
According to North Kyoga Region Police Public Relations Officer (PRO), SP Jimmy Patrick Okema, the territorial police in Alebtong District are investigating allegations of aggravated trafficking in persons against Staff Sergeant Too-Dwong Alex.
It is alleged that in July 2024, Staff Sergeant Too-Dwong Alex visited the home of Abal Alfred, the father of the victims (Akullu Semi Gift, Akullu Racheal, and Abote Lucy), under the pretext of helping them join the UPDF. He received UGX 900,000 from each victim, totaling UGX 2,700,000, but failed to fulfill his promise.
The victims claimed that Staff Sergeant Too-Dwong Alex sexually abused them and threatened to harm them if they spoke out. He also confiscated their mobile phones to prevent them from contacting their families.
Abal Alfred reported the matter to the police, and a case of aggravated trafficking in persons was registered on October 13, 2024.
SP Okema stated that relevant statements were recorded, and medical examinations were conducted on the victims. Efforts are underway to transfer the suspect to Alebtong District for further questioning and prosecution.
The parents of the victims believed that their daughters were undergoing UPDF training until last week when they were rescued following a tip-off.
SP Okema emphasized that parents should follow proper procedures for recruiting their children into security forces. He warned that paying money for recruitment is illegal and advised parents to be cautious.
