October 24, 2023
KAMPALA, Uganda,| Two male adults are currently in police custody in Kampala, facing charges related to promoting homosexuality in the country after they were reportedly caught engaging in what authorities describe as unnatural sexual practices in the city.
The incident, involving two 23-year-olds, took place on Friday, October 20, at a hair salon located in Kisingiri Cell-Namirembe, Bakuli Parish, within the Rubaga Division of Kampala. The development was confirmed by the Police Spokesperson, SCP Fred Enanga, during a weekly security briefing on Monday, October 23, 2023, at Naguru Police Headquarters.
According to Mr. Enanga, a student from a local school sought shelter on the salon’s veranda during heavy rainfall. While there, the student reportedly heard “funny screaming sounds” coming from inside the salon. The concerned student decided to record the incident on their phone and alerted security guards at the nearby Total fuel station in Mengo, who subsequently contacted the police at Bakuli to apprehend the two suspects.
Mr. Enanga emphasized that Uganda considers offenses against the “natural order” such as sodomy as punishable crimes. The two individuals are currently in police custody as charges related to practicing unnatural offenses are processed.
The Police Spokesperson also urged the public to report any suspicious behaviors related to homosexuality and lesbianism in their communities, emphasizing the importance of bringing perpetrators of such practices to justice.
It’s important to note that Uganda passed the Anti-Homosexuality Act in May 2023, which includes severe penalties for acts of aggravated homosexuality. Depending on the circumstances of the crime, these penalties may even include the death penalty. Since the enactment of this law, the police have increased efforts to arrest suspects on allegations of engaging in unnatural practices or homosexual acts.
As of today, October 24, 2023, it has been reported that at least 12 individuals have been arrested and brought before the court between the months of June and October 2023 on charges related to engaging in or promoting homosexual behaviors.
This incident is a reflection of the ongoing debate and controversy surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and legislation in Uganda.
