A man identifying himself as a bishop is in police custody after authorities rescued 37 children and young people from a rented house in Wakiso District in what investigators suspect could be a human trafficking operation disguised as an education sponsorship scheme.
Police in Kasangati arrested Passy Andrew Kandekere, the bishop of Christ Way Generation Ministries, following a dramatic rescue operation in Kabaga-Kayaanga Zone, Kiteezi Ward.
In a statement issued by the Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, Racheal Kawala, the operation was launched after concerned residents alerted authorities about unusual activities at the premises.
According to police, the suspect allegedly recruited children from several districts across Uganda, promising them bursaries and scholarships at a school he operated. Investigators say the promised educational opportunities were never provided, raising concerns that the children may have been lured under false pretences.
The victims, aged between seven and 20 years, were found living in the rented building. They include pupils and students ranging from Primary One to Senior Five.
Of the 37 rescued, 23 are female and 14 are male.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the victims had been brought from different parts of the country, including Luweero, Kamuli, Buyende, Kole, Apac, Jinja, Kikuube and Napak districts.
The discovery has sparked concern among authorities and child protection advocates, who warn that traffickers increasingly use promises of education, employment and better living conditions to target vulnerable families.
Police have praised residents whose tip-off led to the rescue, describing their vigilance as crucial in uncovering the suspected operation. Efforts are now underway to trace the victims’ families and facilitate their safe reunification as investigations continue.
Authorities have also renewed their appeal to parents and guardians to thoroughly verify individuals and organisations offering educational opportunities for children before handing them over to their care.
