KAMPALA — The pre-trial hearing for Gilbert Bwana Arinaitwe, a senior Police officer accused of aggravated human trafficking, is set to take place on Monday, August 19, 2024. Arinaitwe, who holds the rank of Superintendent at the Crime Intelligence headquarters in Kololo, Kampala, faces serious charges related to human trafficking.
Arinaitwe is accused of recruiting and confining Joan Namukasa with the intent of exploiting her sexually or forcing her into labor. These allegations are based on sections 3(1)(a) and 4(h) of the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act 2009. If convicted, Arinaitwe could face a life sentence at Luzira Prison.
Arinaitwe first gained public attention in 2011 when he sprayed former presidential candidate Dr. Kizza Besigye with pepper during a walk-to-work protest. This incident brought him into the spotlight, but the current charges represent a more serious matter.
According to the prosecution, Arinaitwe, along with others who remain unidentified, is accused of various actions against Namukasa. These actions include recruiting, maintaining, confining, transporting, transferring, harboring, facilitating, or receiving her. The alleged methods involve threats, the use of force, coercion, deception, or abuse of power, all aimed at sexual exploitation, forced labor, involuntary servitude, or debt bondage.
The case is being heard by Justice Andrew Bashaija of the International Crimes Division of the High Court. The outcome of the pre-trial hearing will determine the next steps in this serious legal matter.
