Police in Tororo District have rescued eighteen youths who were being housed in five rental rooms in Bison ‘A’ Village, Tororo Municipality, under suspicious circumstances.
The victims, from Katakwi, Amuria, Soroti, Serere, Kumi, and Kapelebyong districts, were reportedly recruited by individuals claiming to represent a company called Rock Stars Millionaire, which has no known office or registration in the district.
Authorities say the group collected one million shillings from each youth, promising lucrative job opportunities within Tororo.
Instead, the youths were crammed into small rental units, prompting concern among local leaders and residents.
Bison ‘A’ Village Local Council One Chairperson, Fredrick Owori, said only two of the youths had sought his permission to operate in the area.
“Two of these boys first came to me asking to allow them operate in my area. I told them to first go and bring an LC1 letter to prove that they are good people,” Owori said.
Some community leaders suspect the youths may have been targeted for trafficking to unknown destinations.
“When you look at where these youths were kept, it tells you the mission,” said community leader Fred Onyango, referring to the cramped and concealed accommodation.
Police have arrested three suspects believed to be behind the recruitment scheme. Samuel Engicu, Michael Acori, and Andrew Opiope are alleged to have coordinated the youths and facilitated their stay in the village.
“We have arrested three so far connected to the move. They are here to help us with investigations,” said Moses Mugwe, Bukedi South police spokesperson.
Both the suspects and the rescued youths remain at Tororo Central Police Station as authorities continue investigations to determine the full motive behind the operation.
Police have urged parents and guardians to verify employment opportunities before allowing their children to travel, warning that more arrests may follow as the network is dismantled.