Kabalagala Police Division is investigating a disturbing case of gang rape involving a 22-year-old woman who was allegedly assaulted by three unidentified boda boda riders over the weekend.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson Rachel Kawala, the victim, a resident of Nsangi in Wakiso District, was assaulted after leaving a birthday party at a club in Bugolobi at around 4:00 a.m. while attempting to return home.
Kawala said the victim, who was unfamiliar with the Bugolobi area, tried to negotiate transport with a boda boda rider but failed to agree on a fare.
She later secured another rider who accepted 15,000 Uganda shillings to take her to Nsangi.
“The first rider declined to take her at the agreed fare, but the second accepted. As they proceeded, the first rider flagged down two other individuals, and they followed the motorcycle carrying the victim,” Kawala explained.
She added that the rider later diverted from the expected route, passing through the Industrial Area before heading to Muyenga, with the two other riders following closely.
According to the victim’s statement to police detectives at Kabalagala Police Station, the group stopped at a dark, isolated spot where all three riders allegedly assaulted her while she was helpless and intoxicated.
After the attack, the suspects reportedly fled with her handbag containing money and two smartphones. “The victim was later rescued by passersby and rushed to the hospital for medical attention,” Kawala said, adding that police have launched a manhunt to apprehend the suspects.
Last year, police apprehended several motorcycle gangs linked to a string of robberies targeting unsuspecting clients across Kampala’s metropolitan areas, particularly at night. The gangs often feigned mechanical breakdowns in isolated locations, allowing accomplices to surround and rob victims before escaping through shortcuts.
Among those arrested for multiple robberies and rape were Stephen Sserwanyiri, 34, Robert Mukisa, 24, and alleged ringleader Jamir Mutaawe. Their arrest followed a robbery incident involving Enid Naginda, a 24-year-old waitress at Luve Restaurant in Kololo.
The police have warned the public to exercise caution when using boda boda services at night.
“We urge the public to avoid moving alone, especially at night, and to steer clear of unfamiliar routes, which are prime targets for criminals. If you attend night parties, take extra precautions. For safer boda boda rides, use trusted riders or reputable service companies. Avoid isolated routes, adjust travel times where possible, and keep valuable items such as expensive phones and gadgets out of sight,” Kawala cautioned.
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