Arua City, September 19, 2025 – In a shocking incident that has stirred outrage in the West Nile community, police in Arua City have launched an investigation into an alleged case of aggravated defilement involving a 16-year-old schoolboy and a female commercial sex worker.

According to a press statement released by the Territorial Police of Arua City, the offence occurred on September 14, 2025, around 11:30 a.m. The suspect, identified as Nambi Caroline, is accused of grabbing the victim and pulling him into her room after he wandered into her nighttime operating area following a football match.

Preliminary investigations reveal that the teenage boy, a student, was sent home from school to fetch some requirements but deviated from his route. Instead, he headed to a local hall to watch the high-stakes English Premier League clash between Manchester United and Manchester City. After the game concluded, the victim began his journey home but found himself near the spot where the suspect stages her commercial activities at night.

“It’s alleged that the suspect grabbed the victim and pulled him into her room, where she committed the offence,” the police statement detailed. The boy corroborated the account during questioning, providing a consistent narrative of the events.

In her defense, Nambi Caroline maintains that the encounter was consensual. She claims the 16-year-old approached her voluntarily seeking her services, which she provided for a fee of 5,000 Ugandan shillings. The suspect further asserted that she used protection during the act, citing her awareness of her HIV status as the reason for the precaution.

The swift intervention of vigilant community members played a crucial role in the suspect’s apprehension. Locals promptly arrested Nambi and handed her over to police, preventing any potential mob justice. Authorities commended the public for their restraint and cooperation, emphasizing the importance of allowing law enforcement to handle such matters.

“We extend our most sincere heartfelt gratitude to the community for their vigilance in swiftly arresting the suspect and handing her over to police for further management,” the statement read. “The community is further thanked for not taking the law into their own hands.”

Investigations into the matter have now concluded, with the case file forwarded to the Resident State Attorney (RSA) for legal advice and potential prosecution. Under Ugandan law, aggravated defilement carries severe penalties, including life imprisonment, particularly when involving minors.

SP Anguyo Jimmy Bayiga, spokesperson for the West Nile Region Police, reiterated the force’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children and urged parents and guardians to monitor their children’s movements closely, especially during school hours.

“This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks young people face in our communities,” SP Bayuga said. “We encourage continued partnership with the public to ensure justice is served through proper channels.”

The case has sparked discussions on child safety, the vulnerabilities of minors in urban settings, and the broader implications of commercial sex work in residential areas. Community leaders in Arua have called for increased awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement to prevent similar occurrences.

As the legal process unfolds, residents await the Director of Public Prosecutions’ decision on whether charges will be formally filed. Police have assured the public that updates will be provided as the matter progresses.

Written by

Andrew Ogwang

Andrew Ogwang is a dedicated Ugandan journalist based in the Northern Region, with a focus on economic reporting, current affairs, and social issues affecting the country. Ogwang has contributed to several local media outlets, including print and digital platforms like The Northern Press, where he has covered topics ranging from policy developments and community stories to investigative pieces on development challenges in Uganda.