The suspect, identified as Ismael Bamuturaki , a resident of Top Hill Ward in Katwe Kabatooro Town Council, was arrested by officers attached to Katwe Police Division following a report made by school authorities.
According to police, the victim had been living with her aunt, who is married to the suspect. It is alleged that the child's aunt travelled to Mubende in June, leaving the girl under the care of the suspect.
Police say the alleged abuse came to light on July 20, 2026, when the girl confided in a fellow pupil at Katwe Primary School.
The information was subsequently relayed to the school's head teacher, Sunday Julius, who reported the matter to Katwe Police Division.
The victim was interviewed, her statement recorded and subjected to a medical examination before the suspect was arrested. He is currently in police custody as investigations continue.
Rwenzori East Region Police Spokesperson ASP Elly Maate condemned the alleged offence, saying it represented a serious betrayal of a child's trust and safety.
"It's very unfortunate for a person responsible for protecting her to be the one violating her sexually. Upon completion of inquiries, he will be produced before the court of law to answer charges accordingly," ASP Maate said.
Police have urged parents, guardians, teachers and members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspected cases of child abuse to the nearest police station or relevant child protection authorities.
The suspect is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.