The highly anticipated trial of police officer Gilbert Arinaitwe Bwana has once again hit a standstill, as the prosecution failed to present the victim and key witnesses in court.
On Monday, April 7, 2025, Arinaitwe appeared before the International Crimes Division of the High Court for a hearing on charges of aggravated trafficking in persons. However, the case was quickly stalled when the prosecution, led by Mr. Joseph Kyomuhendo, reported that they were still unable to locate the victim and primary witnesses.
“I pray for an adjournment to continue locating the victim and witnesses as I also consult my boss,” Mr. Kyomuhendo told the court.
Presiding judge Alice Komuhangi Khaukha reluctantly granted a two-week adjournment but warned the state to be ready to proceed by then.
“I want to give the two weeks to the prosecution to look for the witnesses in the case, especially the victim, and by then you should be ready to proceed,” she said. The case was rescheduled for April 22.
This marks yet another delay in a case that has drawn public attention due to the gravity of the charges and the high-profile nature of the accused.
Arinaitwe, previously known for pepper-spraying opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye during a 2011 protest, now faces allegations of recruiting and exploiting a young woman under deceptive circumstances.
Court documents allege that Arinaitwe lured the victim from Mbarara to Kampala under the pretense of offering her a housekeeping job.
Upon arrival, the victim was allegedly subjected to repeated sexual advances and eventually sexual assault, particularly after the accused’s girlfriend left their residence.
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, the trial has been plagued by delays, with this latest adjournment underscoring challenges in securing critical testimony.
Without the appearance of the victim and key witnesses, the prosecution’s ability to proceed remains in question.
Observers now wait to see whether the prosecution will meet the court’s deadline or whether the case will face further setbacks.
