By Our Reporter
Police in Jinja City have arrested a clinical officer, aged 40, stationed at Mpumudde Health Centre IV, on suspicion of defiling a five?year?old girl in the Northern Division of Jinja. The arrest followed a distress call from neighbors who heard unusual sounds coming from the suspect’s residence within the health facility.
Authorities say the incident took place on October 16 in the afternoon. The suspect allegedly lured the child under the pretext of buying yogurt and biscuits, sending her into his quarters located at the hospital premises. After she complied, he is accused of carrying out the assault.
The child’s mother, who reportedly works at a canteen near the health facility, had been approached by the suspect earlier and asked about her daughter’s whereabouts. She instructed the girl to fetch snacks, not expecting foul play.
Kiira Region Police Spokesperson James Mubi confirmed that the suspect attempted to flee when confronted by security personnel but was apprehended near the scene and escorted to Mpumudde Police Station. He noted that top officials from the health centre swiftly alerted the authorities upon learning of the incident.
Medical and forensic officers were called to the scene, collecting samples, clothing, and other evidence for analysis. Investigations are being conducted under the guidance of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the suspect is expected to face charges of aggravated defilement once the case file is ready.
Mubi also revealed that the suspect’s practicing license is under scrutiny and that the Allied Health Professionals Council has been petitioned to suspend or revoke it should the court find him guilty. He added that cooperation from health regulatory bodies is essential for the case’s credibility.
Community reactions have been mixed, with many expressing outrage and demanding swift justice. Some parents in the area claimed they had previously complained about suspicious behavior but were ignored, calling for improved child protection mechanisms in public institutions.
Children’s rights groups have urged law enforcement to expedite the prosecution and ensure the child receives necessary psychological support and medical care. As the case advances, it is expected to rejuvenate calls for stricter accountability for health workers and more robust safeguards for vulnerable minors.
