Kakira Worker Arrested After Severe Torture of 8-Year-Old Girl

Human rights activists have demanded arrest of the girl's father, arguing that his inaction facilitated the abuse
An 8-year-old girl entrusted to the care of a family friend has narrowly escaped death after enduring months of severe physical and emotional abuse.
The harrowing case, which unfolded in Bukware-Nakanyonyi Cell, Bugembe, Jinja City, has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for justice from activists, NGOs, and the public.
The suspect, Hellen Judith Baliraine, 41, a social worker at Kakira Sugar Factory, is accused of subjecting the child to prolonged torture and neglect.
The girl was left in Baliraine’s care by her stepmother in September 2024, but by the time the abuse came to light on December 9, she was malnourished, covered in wounds, and gravely ill.
The case came to public attention after Baliraine sought medical help for the child at Bugembe Health Centre IV. Clinical officers were alarmed by the suspect’s hesitance to permit a thorough examination.
Upon inspection, the team discovered a shocking array of injuries, both fresh and healing, along with signs of severe malnutrition.
Acting quickly, the health facility reported the matter to Bugembe Police Station, leading to the suspect’s initial arrest.
While initial reports claimed Baliraine had been released on police bond, SP James Mubi, the Kiira Regional Police Spokesperson, dismissed these claims as false.
He clarified that the suspect remains in custody under a case file sanctioned for aggravated torture.
"Baliraine was transferred from CPS Jinja to Nalufenya Police Station" he said though our independent sources at CPS indicate that she was re-arrested after the matter became a public concern on social media.
The case has intensified scrutiny on her husband, a teacher at Jinja College, who is accused of abetting the crime by failing to intervene.
Human rights activists have demanded his arrest, arguing that his inaction facilitated the abuse.
The child, now in the care of Upendo Ministries, a nonprofit organizlsation, is receiving medical treatment and psychosocial support.
The organisation is working to rehabilitate her after months of trauma.
The Kiira Region Police Command praised Bugembe Health Centre IV for its vigilance and commended child protection officers at CPS Jinja for their professionalism.
SP Mubi also acknowledged the critical role of media, NGOs, and community members in amplifying the call for justice.
SSP Monday Johnson Agaba, the Regional Criminal Investigations Department Officer, issued a stern warning against supporting acts of torture.
“Such actions are criminal and punishable by law,” he said, emphasizing Uganda’s legal and moral obligation to protect children.
Uganda’s Children Act and the National Child Policy (2020) explicitly prohibit torture, abuse, and neglect, aligning with international standards.
The law mandates the prevention of all forms of violence against children and ensures justice for victims.

The case has ignited a wave of advocacy from NGOs and human rights groups, urging law enforcement to hold all responsible parties accountable.
“How could her husband just watch as the child was tortured in his home? He should also be arrested,” activists demanded on social media.
The police have assured the public of their commitment to combating gender-based violence (GBV) and violence against children (VAC).
“We are dedicated to protecting vulnerable groups and ensuring perpetrators face the full force of the law,” SP Mubi stated.
Mubi revealed that the accused's file has been sanctioned and shall be arraigned on Monday next week.
The case serves as a grim reminder of the need for vigilance and collective action to protect children from abuse and exploitation.
As investigations continue, the public waits for justice to be served, not only for the young survivor but for all vulnerable children in Uganda.