Patricia Nantume, the owner of Cloud 9 Massage and Chill Outs in Buikwe District, Uganda, has been charged with three counts of homosexuality and one count of trafficking in persons. The charges were brought against her under Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act (2023) and the Trafficking in Persons Act (2009).

Nantume, also known as Malaika, is accused of performing sexual acts with a person of the same sex at her massage parlor between April and August 2023. Additionally, she is alleged to have allowed her premises to be used for same-sex activities and to have transported and maintained a person for sexual exploitation during the same period.

The charges follow a raid on her massage parlor, which was alleged to be offering same-sex related services. Several people were initially arrested, but some were released later due to being victims or potential state witnesses.

Uganda has strict anti-LGBTQ laws, and homosexuality is criminalized under these laws. The charges against Nantume highlight the ongoing legal challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals and advocates in the country. The case also sheds light on the broader issues related to human rights and sexual freedoms in Uganda.

The case is currently in the legal process, with the prosecution requesting more time for investigations before the defendant is committed to the High Court.