Police have arrested a 35-year-old maid who was filmed in a sickening video torturing a 4-year-old child in a bathroom.
Precious Tumuhirwe
Precious Tumuhirwe was arrested in Kabale District in South-western Uganda where she had fled after the torture of the child in the early hours of December 27, 2024, at Kikoko Zone, Namataba Cell, Kirinya Ward, Wakiso District.
“Arrangements are underway to transport her to Kira Division Police in Kira Municipality for further interrogation and prosecution,” said Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire.
The victim is currently receiving medical treatment at Nsambya Hospital. Authorities are continuing their inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the attack.
The suspect, who had worked as a housemaid for the family for four years, reportedly fled the scene after the incident in which she is seen repeatedly assaulting the bleeding victim.
She is currently being held at Kabale Central Police Station.
Preliminary investigations reveal that the victim’s father, Mr Michael Mwesigwa, has been the sole caregiver to his children since separating from their mother two years ago.
The suspect was hired based on a recommendation from acquaintances in Kabale.
Child and Youth Affairs Minister Balaam Barugahara lauded the police for their swift response. In a statement on Twitter, he wrote:
“This senseless act of violence is unacceptable, and we must stand together to protect our children and vulnerable populations,” Mr Balaam said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.
ASP Owoyesigyire condemned the incident, reaffirming the Police’s commitment to protecting children and vulnerable populations.
“The Uganda Police Force condemns all forms of violence, particularly against children, and remains committed to ensuring justice is served. We urge the public to report any suspected cases of abuse to the nearest police station,” Owoyesigyire said.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with calls for greater vigilance in monitoring domestic workers and harsher penalties for crimes against children.Investigations into the case are ongoing.