Police in Kisoro District have arrested a 35-year-old man accused of defiling his toddler daughter in Nyakabande Sub-county, Bufumbira East Constituency.
The suspect, Innocent Nteziyaremye, a resident of Kibaya Village, Gasiza Parish, was apprehended on Thursday after neighbors reportedly caught him in the act following the child’s distress cries.
Kisoro District Police Commander SP Ben Niwamanya Kashumbusha confirmed the arrest, noting that vigilant residents alerted police, who responded promptly at around 4:30 p.m.
“This is a shocking and unacceptable crime,” Niwamanya said. “We commend the vigilance of the community members who acted swiftly. We continue to urge the public to report such incidents so that we can protect vulnerable children.”
Police said Nteziyaremye is in custody facing charges of aggravated defilement as investigations continue. The juvenile victim is receiving medical and psychological support.
Eyewitnesses described the incident as horrifying.
“We heard the child crying and rushed to help. What we saw was unthinkable, and we acted immediately,” one neighbor recounted.
Local leaders have pledged counseling and awareness efforts to support the victim’s family and strengthen child protection in the community.
Niwamanya urged collective action against sexual abuse: “I appeal to all community members to stand united against these atrocities. Together, we can safeguard innocent children from harm.”
The incident has shocked the village, with residents gathering to console the family and condemn the crime.
According to the 2024 Uganda Police Annual Crime Report, 12,312 defilement cases were recorded nationwide. Only 749—about 11 percent—resulted in convictions, while 81 percent remain pending in court.
Police have reiterated their call to parents, guardians, and leaders to remain vigilant and prioritize the safety of children.