Ugandan police have launched an investigation into a suspected human trafficking ring in central Uganda after rescuing 37 victims, officials said on Wednesday.
Authorities reported that the victims were confined in a rented house in Kabaga Kayaanga Zone, Kiteezi Ward, Wakiso District.
The suspect, identified as Kandekere Passy Andrew, a bishop with Christ Way Generation Ministries, is accused of recruiting children nationwide with promises of bursaries and scholarships that were never delivered.
Police said the 37 victims – 23 girls and 14 boys aged 7 to 20 – came from several districts, including Luweero, Kamuli, Buyende, Kole, Apac, Jinja, Kikuube and Napak.
The rescue followed a tip‑off from residents and efforts are underway to reunite the children with their families as investigations continue.
Observers noted that widespread poverty, hunger and poor access to schooling have made communities vulnerable to traffickers operating in different parts of the country.
Promises of jobs or education often lure young girls into Kenya where many are subjected to exploitation and abuse.
Nairobi’s Kamukunji area has emerged as a key hub, with trafficked Ugandan girls pushed into the informal economy under harsh conditions.
MG/jn/APA