Pastor Arrested in Wakiso as Police Rescue 37 Children in Suspected Trafficking Scheme

Authorities in Kasangati, Wakiso District, are investigating a suspected human trafficking network after a successful police operation led to the rescue of 37 children. The children, ranging in age from seven to 20 years old and spanning from Primary One to Senior Five levels, were reportedly lured from various districts across Uganda with deceptive promises of bursaries and scholarships.

The arrest of a Pentecostal pastor from Christ Way Generation Ministries followed a tip-off from concerned residents in the Kabaga-Kayaanga Zone who observed suspicious activities at a rented building. Police intervened, finding the children housed in the facility.

Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Racheal Kawala stated that preliminary findings suggest the pastor recruited children from districts including Luweero, Kamuli, Buyende, Kole, Apac, Jinja, Kikuube, and Napak. The promised educational sponsorships were allegedly never materialized, raising serious concerns about exploitation and trafficking.

Of the rescued individuals, 23 are female and 14 are male. They have been placed under protective care, and efforts are underway to locate and reunite them with their families. Police are also working to understand the full scope of the recruitment and transportation process and to identify any potential accomplices.

SP Kawala praised the community for their crucial role in providing the information that enabled the rescue. She urged parents and guardians to exercise extreme caution when considering educational opportunities offered by unfamiliar individuals or organizations. The investigation into suspected human trafficking and child exploitation is ongoing, with the pastor currently in police custody.