Police warn against lone night walks, as rape and defilement cases reported

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Police have warned members of the public against moving alone after late-night social activities. The call follows reports of rape and defilement involving a young woman and a four-year-old girl in separate incidents in the Kampala Metropolitan area.

Speaking to journalists on December 15, 2025, Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala urged revellers to avoid lone movements after hard partying, saying criminals deliberately target individuals who are isolated and vulnerable during late hours.

“After partying, people should avoid walking alone. Move in trusted groups where possible and use reliable means of transport. These criminals prey on lone individuals, especially in the early morning hours,” Kawala said during the joint weekly media briefing.

Her warning follows investigations into the alleged rape and robbery of a 22-year-old woman in the early hours of December 14 in Kampala.

According to preliminary Police findings, the victim was returning from a friend’s birthday party and had been at a nightclub in Bugolobi, in Nakawa division, when she attempted to hire a bodaboda to take her home in Budo, Wakiso district, at about 4:00am. 

Kawala said the first bodaboda rider she approached declined to take her after rejecting a fare of shillings 15,000. 

She then secured another rider, who agreed to transport her. However, the rider who had earlier declined allegedly followed them while carrying another person.

“Along the way, the rider transporting the victim diverted to Muyenga B zone, stopped abruptly at a secluded spot, where the two suspects allegedly gang-raped her and robbed her before fleeing,” Kawala said.

She said a manhunt had been launched to track down the suspects and appealed to the public to share any information that could aid investigations.

Avoid shortcuts

In a related appeal, Kawala advised the public to avoid isolated roads and shortcuts, use well-lit main roads, vary travel routes and times, and keep valuables such as phones and bags out of sight.

She also urged motorists to remain alert when arriving home at night.

“Before opening your gate, take a moment to observe your surroundings and ensure the area is clear,” she said.

Four-year-old defiled

In the same briefing, Police also disclosed they are investigating a case of aggravated defilement involving a four-year-old girl in Nakawa.

Kawala said the incident, which is alleged to have occurred between October 6, 2025 and the present in Mbuya- Kinawataka in  Nakawa Division, was reported after the child complained to a neighbour of pain in her private parts.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the child had been sharing a bed with her biological father after the mother travelled abroad for work.

“A case of aggravated defilement has been registered at Jinja Road Police Station. The victim is due for medical examination, and efforts are underway to trace and arrest the suspect,” Kawala said.

She appealed to parents and guardians to exercise vigilance and ensure children are left under the care of trusted individuals, stressing that child safety remains a priority for police.

Meanwhile, Kawala said Police operations targeting criminal activity continue across the Kampala Metropolitan area.

On December 13, Territorial Police in Kira Division conducted disruptive operations in Bulindo, and Nsasa in Wakiso District, leading to the arrest of 11 suspects.

The suspects were found in possession of suspected opium and are accused of involvement in crimes including theft, phone snatching and house break-ins. 

Police said cases of possession of narcotic drugs have been opened as investigations continue.

Kawala said police will sustain intelligence-led operations to curb crime and protect residents during the festive season.