By Lawrence Kooko
Police in Kiboga District have arrested eight people after stopping a planned marriage involving a 16-year-old girl.
The arrests followed an intelligence-led operation carried out on April 16 in Kagoga Village, Kyomya Sub-county.
Wamala Region Police spokesperson SSP Lameka Kigozi said the suspects were found preparing to marry off the minor, a Senior Three student at Bukomero Secondary School, despite her being below the legal age.
Those arrested are Kiyingi Yunus and Luwedde Robina, the girl’s parents, Namubiru Allen, her aunt, Kawuki Mathias, the alleged groom, Sande Walulya David and Tusibira Esther, the groom’s parents, and Kafeero Jacob. The girl has been identified as Nakibuuka Viola.
Police recovered items believed to be part of the dowry, including sugar, soap, rice, meat, gomesis and kanzus.
All the suspects are being held at Kiboga Central Police Station pending court action. SSP Kigozi said charges of defilement and procuring defilement have been filed and are awaiting sanction by the Resident State Attorney.
Police have warned parents and guardians to observe the legal marriage age of 18, noting that child marriage is a criminal offence
