- Police in Rubirizi District have arrested a 17-year-old male in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a four-year-old child at St Peter’s Nursery School.
- The incident reportedly occurred on August 20 in a private residence. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing, and the suspect remains in custody.
- The case highlights broader concerns about child safety and juvenile crime in Uganda, where over 12,000 defilement cases were recorded in 2024, according to the national crime report.
Authorities in Rubirizi District have taken a 17-year-old male into custody following allegations of sexual assault involving a four-year-old child enrolled at St Peter’s Nursery School. The incident is said to have occurred on August 20 in a private residence located in Kyeibumba II Village, Buzenga Parish, Ryeru Sub County.
Police responded swiftly to the report, securing the scene and initiating a medical examination to support the investigation. The suspect, identified only by his first name, remains in detention as inquiries continue.
Law enforcement officials have acknowledged the complexities of handling cases involving minors—both victims and suspects—and emphasized the importance of safeguarding children from harm. They’ve urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and proactive about their children’s safety.
This case comes amid troubling national statistics. Uganda’s 2024 crime report revealed over 12,000 defilement cases across the country—a slight drop from the previous year, but still a stark reminder of the challenges facing child protection efforts. Of these, thousands were classified as aggravated, underscoring the severity of the issue.
Investigators say the Rubirizi case is still under review, and legal proceedings will follow once all evidence has been gathered. The community awaits further updates as police work to ensure justice is served.
