Police in Kamuli District, Eastern Uganda, have arrested a 43-year-old businessman, who also serves as a Parish Development Model (PDM) chairperson, for allegedly defiling a 13-year-old primary five pupil.

The suspect, Mohamad Jingo, a resident of Mbulamuti Town Council, was taken into custody following an investigation by local police. Jingo, who operates a charcoal business, allegedly initiated contact with the girl through phone calls. The girl’s mother, who overheard a conversation between her daughter and Jingo, became suspicious and decided to follow his actions discreetly.

Busoga North Police Spokesperson, ASP Michael Kasadha, stated that preliminary investigations indicate Jingo seduced the girl at his charcoal stall. The communication between Jingo and the girl reportedly became easier after her mother purchased a phone for her.

“Jingo obtained the girl’s contact information and would call her to pick up charcoal, during which he seduced and defiled her on three occasions,” Kasadha said on Wednesday, June 5.

Jingo was apprehended on a night when the girl’s mother had just returned home from Kampala. Despite receiving reports that her daughter was being “spoilt by a PDM chairperson,” the mother initially pretended to be unaware of the situation.

After reporting the matter to detectives at Mbulamuti Police Station, the mother returned home to find her daughter’s bed empty. She sought information from her daughter’s friends, who revealed the girl’s whereabouts. The girl was found at Jingo’s place, leading to his immediate arrest.

Fearing for her daughter’s health, the mother expressed concerns about potential infection or pregnancy. Both the girl and Jingo have been examined as investigations continue.

Police have urged parents to take all necessary measures to protect their children, especially when providing them with communication devices.