Prosecutors from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) have informed the International Crimes Division of the High court that crucial witnesses, including the alleged victim, remain untraceable in the aggravated trafficking case against senior police officer Gilbert Arinaitwe Bwana.
The update was delivered on Monday by chief state Attorney Joseph Kyomuhendo during a scheduled hearing before lady justice Alice Komuhangi Khauka. Kyomuhendo requested an adjournment to allow the prosecution more time to locate the missing witnesses and consult further with DPP Jane Frances Abodo on the next steps.
Justice Komuhangi granted the request and adjourned the matter to April 22, 2025, emphasizing that all parties must be prepared to proceed on that date. The International Crimes Division (ICD) confirmed the charges against Bwana in December 2024, with Division head justice Dr Andrew Bashaija ruling that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to commit the officer to trial.
According to the prosecution, Bwana lured the victim from Mbarara to Kampala under the pretense of offering her a job as a housemaid. Upon arrival, however, the victim was allegedly subjected to repeated sexual abuse, including forced unprotected intercourse at gunpoint, confinement with limited food, and denial of wages.
The prosecution further contends that Bwana used his authority to intimidate and exploit the victim. Medical reports submitted in court support the victim’s account, citing an old ruptured hymen, bruising, and signs of inflammation.
Additional testimony from the victim’s aunt, Agnes Katushabe, linked her to a woman who facilitated the job arrangement and sent Shs 40,000 for the victim’s transport. Bwana, a controversial figure, first rose to national prominence in 2011 when he pepper-sprayed opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye after smashing with a pistol the window of his vehicle during the Walk to Work protests.
He was also charged with domestic violence in 2015. Now facing a charge of aggravated trafficking in persons, Bwana risks a maximum sentence of life imprisonment if convicted. Police investigations reveal that the victim confided in a friend, stating she had been raped multiple times, denied food, and never compensated for her work.
The friend reportedly alerted the local defense secretary, who assisted in rescuing the victim and escorted her to Nateete police station to file a complaint. Authorities have since confirmed that the victim is currently receiving protection and support from an undisclosed non-governmental organization for her safety.