Police in Kasese District have expressed deep concern over the increasing cases of defilement reported in the area, warning that the actual situation could be far worse than what is currently on record.
According to the Rwenzori East Regional Police, at least four cases of defilement were registered in just one week, raising fears that more incidents remain unreported due to stigma and family interference.
Defilement remains one of the leading forms of gender-based violence in Kasese District, leaving many young girls traumatized and families devastated.
Rwenzori East Region Police Spokesperson SP Nelson Tumushime said the trend is worrying and calls for stronger community vigilance.
“We have registered four cases of defilement within a week, but our biggest fear is that the actual numbers could be much higher because many victims and their families choose not to report,”
said Tumushime.
Human rights defenders in the district have attributed the rise in cases to negligence by some parents and guardians, who fail to provide adequate protection to their children.
Ronald Kato, a human rights activist based in Kasese, said the situation reflects growing irresponsibility within communities.
“Many of these cases happen because parents are not paying attention to their children’s safety. Some even try to negotiate with perpetrators instead of reporting to the authorities,” said Ronald Kato, a Human Rights Defender.
Community leaders are also alarmed. Ali Mosh, the Community Development Officer for Katwe Sub-county, urged families to take the issue seriously and work closely with law enforcement to protect children.
“As a community, we must prioritize the protection of our children. Parents should not wait for police to act prevention begins at home,” said Ali Mosh, CDO Katwe Sub-county.
Despite ongoing campaigns against gender-based violence, cases of defilement continue to rise in Kasese, prompting calls for stronger enforcement of the law and more awareness programs in local communities.
“The rising cases of defilement in Kasese raise fresh questions on whether enough is being done to protect children and whether the law is being enforced to its full strength,” added Kato.
