Gangs Target Female Factory Workers in Mukono: Report
The assaults, which have occurred over the past few weeks, mainly take place along isolated routes to and from work, often during early morning or late evening hours when the roads are sparsely populated.
A disturbing surge of gang rapes targeting female factory workers in Mukono District has left the community in fear, with victims being attacked while commuting to Mbalala Industrial Park.
The assaults, which have occurred over the past few weeks, mainly take place along isolated routes to and from work, often during early morning or late evening hours when the roads are sparsely populated.
Betty Nabatanzi, a local resident, revealed that more than 10 female factory workers have been raped and robbed in the area.
“Several women have fallen victim to these criminals while traveling between Namawojjolo and Mbalala. We’ve raised the issue with local leaders, but nothing has been done to stop it. Just last week, one woman was raped, and her genitals were horrifically harmed with grass,” Nabatanzi shared.
The brutal nature of the crimes has left many residents shocked and frustrated. Beatrice Miyamba, another local resident, explained that the assailants have been disguising themselves as women, using skirts and dresses to deceive their victims.
“The criminals pretend to be women, which makes it easier for them to ambush girls along the route. I urge the factory management to reconsider working hours to help reduce the risk for workers. Having to leave early in the morning and return late at night is putting them in constant danger,” Miyamba said.
One survivor, speaking anonymously, described her horrifying ordeal. “I was walking home after a long shift when I was attacked. There were so many of them, and I couldn’t fight them off. It was terrifying,” she recounted, her voice trembling.
The lack of security on the roads surrounding Mbalala Industrial Park has heightened fears. While the park serves as a key economic hub, the limited law enforcement presence, especially at night, has left many workers vulnerable.
Charles Lwanga, Chairperson of Namawojjolo Parish, expressed his concern: “These women work hard to support their families, and now they must live in fear every time they go to or leave work.”
He has called for urgent action to increase security in the area, including more law enforcement patrols.
In response to the escalating violence, Mukono Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Fatumah Ndisaba has instructed local police to investigate the attacks.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety of all workers,” Ndisaba stated. “I have directed the police to increase patrols in the affected areas and investigate these heinous crimes.”
Local residents and workers believe that adjusting working hours could help reduce risks. Many women are forced to travel during poorly lit and deserted hours, making them easy targets.
It is vital that factory management and local authorities collaborate to create safer working conditions for these vulnerable women.
