The Joint Security Teams of CID and Crime Intelligence, have arrested and detained a Local Council five (LC5) Chairperson for aggravated defilement of a senior three girl.
The victim, Julius Chelimo is the LC5 Chairperson of Bukwo district. He has been on the police wanted list for committing the said offence.
In a statement dated 31st October 2022, Fred Enanga the police spokesperson said Chelimo has been arrested on charges of alleged aggravated defilement, forceable confinement and trafficking of a 16year girl victim and S.3 student in one of the schools in Sebei region.
According to Enanga, the suspect during the month of May 2022, trafficked and sexually assaulted, the minor at various places in Mbale, Bukwo, Kapchorwa and Budaka district.
“As you are all aware, cases of Aggravated Defilement or sexual assault are very serious in nature, and that is the reason why a thorough investigation was carried out. We gathered crucial evidence on the victim, exhibits of material value and very good account of witnesses.”
He said after proper investigation was done, several summons were sent out to him (the suspect) but he refused to turn up and went into hiding for over 3 months.
“He resorted to the use of blackmail and threats to whoever he suspected of tracking and trailing him for arrest,” Enanga said it was after several failed attempts that they were able to get information about his whereabouts in Bukwo district.
“So we located and arrested him. He was further transferred to the CID Headquarters, in Kibuli for further interviewing and court action,” he said.
Enanga warned the police maintains zero tolerance for all acts of sexual violence against vulnerable persons. He raised the suspect will be charged accordingly in courts of law without consideration of his political status.
“To all our local leaders and politicians, it is absolutely paramount that girl victims feel safe in society under your guidance and protection as role models who are always held to high standards,” Enanga added.
“The IGP has applauded the task teams from CID and CI, for the brilliant work they did in tracking down the wanted suspect. This serves as a warning to all wanted criminal suspects, that we will relentlessly pursue them using all available resources and make sure they are brought to justice.”