By Our Reporter
NATIONAL
The International Crimes Division of the High Court, presided over by Hon. Justice Bashaija K. Andrew, has confirmed terrorism and aggravated trafficking in persons charges against Twaha Kasaija, Kisambu Ismail, Muhammed Nabanji, and Mutebi Twaha alias Sheikh.
The prosecution contends that the accused, through deception and abuse of vulnerability, recruited and transported children from Kyankwanzi and Wakiso Districts to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for purposes including forced labour, sexual exploitation, and involvement in armed conflict.
In its ruling delivered on Thursday, July 30, 2026, the Pre-trial Court found sufficient evidence to support all the charges, noting that most victims were minors, some as young as four years old.
According to ODPP, evidence presented by the prosecution linked the accused to the recruitment, movement, and transfer of children to ADF camps, where they reportedly underwent military-style training. The court therefore found that there were substantial grounds to believe that the accused persons committed the alleged offences.
The matter shall now proceed before a single judge or panel of judges for trial.
Mr. Richard Birivumbuka, Chief State Attorney, and Mr. George Bigira, Senior State Attorney, represented the ODPP.
This case highlights ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and human trafficking.
