The Ugandan Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development has launched a decisive crackdown on an alleged human trafficking ring, calling for the arrest and thorough investigation of Mr. Benjamin Kamukama and Ms. Kamukama Evas Tugume for extortion and trafficking in persons. This action follows a complaint filed by migrant worker Ms. Twinomugisha Winnie, who alleges she was scammed and trafficked to the United Arab Emirates (Dubai) after being charged exorbitant placement fees, as detailed in a letter dated July 21, 2025, from the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Milton Turyasiima. The Ministry’s investigation revealed that Ms. Twinomugisha was sold and confined to a room with other young Ugandan girls, from which she managed to escape and seek assistance from the Ugandan Embassy. The Ministry has formally referred this case to the Uganda Police, CID, for further meticulous investigation and potential prosecution.
A Victim’s Personal Account: Ms. Twinomugisha Winnie Shares Her Ordeal
Ms. Twinomugisha Winnie, the migrant worker who filed the complaint against the Kamukamas, recounted her harrowing experience, stating, “I was promised a job in Dubai, but upon arrival, I was sold to a trafficker who locked me in a room with other girls. We were treated like slaves, forced to work lengthy hours without compensation. I managed to escape and seek help from the Ugandan Embassy, and I’m profoundly grateful to be safely back home.” The alleged human trafficking ring is believed to have operated outside the formal frameworks established by the Ministry, illicitly charging victims UGX 5,000,000 (Five million) in placement fees. The Ministry’s actions underscore its unwavering commitment to safeguarding Ugandan citizens from exploitation and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. This case highlights the imperative of sustained vigilance and inter-agency cooperation to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals. The Uganda Police, CID, has been tasked with meticulously investigating these allegations and bringing the perpetrators to justice. As the investigation progresses, the Ministry has assured that it will maintain close collaboration with relevant authorities to ensure that those culpable are held accountable and that victims receive the necessary support. The Ministry’s proactive efforts to combat human trafficking constitute a crucial step towards protecting Ugandan citizens from exploitation. This case serves as a poignant reminder of the necessity for continued inter-agency cooperation and the importance of vigilance in preventing human trafficking. Through concerted efforts, the Ugandan government and its agencies can ensure that human trafficking perpetrators are brought to justice and that victims are provided with the support needed to rebuild their lives.
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Written By: Kamwebaze Happiness Muteganda
