Authorities in Kakumiro are investigating a harrowing case of sexual violence after a 25-year-old pregnant woman was gang-raped, resulting in a trauma-induced premature delivery.
The incident, which has triggered widespread anger in Rugoingo Village, Kakindo Sub-county, involved three men identified only by their first names: Peter, James, and Paul. All are residents of the same village and have since been arrested by police following a formal complaint by the victim’s family.
According to preliminary investigations by the Albertine Regional Police, the suspects lured the woman with alcohol, urging her to drink heavily. Once intoxicated and defenseless, they allegedly took turns raping her, inflicting both physical and psychological damage.
The victim later experienced severe complications and was rushed to Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, where medical personnel confirmed that she had gone into premature labor. She delivered her baby under emergency care—a result, doctors say, of the extreme stress and violence she endured during the assault.
Julius Hakiza, the spokesperson for the Albertine Region Police, confirmed that the suspects are in custody and that police have filed serious charges.
The crime has sparked public condemnation, with local leaders and residents calling for swift justice and harsher penalties for perpetrators of gender-based violence.
The victim and her premature baby are currently under medical observation at Hoima Hospital, where doctors are working to stabilize their condition.
This brutal incident adds to the growing number of sexual violence cases reported in rural Uganda, underscoring the urgent need for stronger protection mechanisms for women and better community awareness on gender-based violence.
Police say investigations are ongoing and more charges may be brought as the case develops.
