In a significant development following a comprehensive BBC investigation, authorities in Dubai have arrested Charles Mwesigwa, the alleged ringleader of a sex trafficking network. This operation is reported to have exploited vulnerable women within the affluent areas of Dubai.
Mwesigwa, known locally as “Abbey,” was captured on camera by an undercover reporter posing as an event organizer looking for women for high-end parties. During the interaction, he stated that he could provide women for such events, with prices starting at $1,000 (£750). He also indicated that the women were expected to comply with nearly any client request and mentioned his past employment as a London bus driver.
The specific charges Mwesigwa is facing in the UAE remain unclear, as the authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the matter. However, a Dubai-based law firm informed the BBC that Mwesigwa is in custody at the Central Prison Centre in Al Awir, Dubai. It is understood that Interpol Uganda has issued a red notice for Mwesigwa, a request for international police cooperation to detain individuals pending extradition.
The Ugandan embassy in Abu Dhabi issued a statement last week acknowledging ongoing human trafficking investigations and confirmed that UAE authorities have taken action. The BBC believes this statement is directly related to Mwesigwa’s arrest.
The BBC World Service investigation uncovered harrowing testimonies from young Ugandan women who claimed they were lured to Dubai with promises of legitimate employment, only to be coerced into prostitution and left in debt. Many reported being deceived about the nature of the work available, expecting positions in supermarkets or hotels, while prostitution itself is illegal in Dubai.
One woman, identifying herself only as “Mia” to protect her identity, recounted experiences of extreme exploitation within Mwesigwa’s network, including a client who allegedly demanded she defecate on him. Mwesigwa has denied all allegations made against him in the BBC investigation, asserting that he merely facilitated accommodation through landlords and that women were drawn to his parties due to his influential Dubai connections. He stated, “I told you I am just a party person who invites big spenders on my tables, hence making many girls flock [to] my table. That makes me know many girls and that’s it.”
The BBC’s investigation also highlighted the tragic deaths of two women associated with Mwesigwa, Monic Karungi and Kayla Birungi, who died after falling from high-rise apartments. While their deaths were officially ruled as suicides, friends and family suspect further investigation was warranted. Dubai police have not responded to the BBC’s requests for comment regarding these incidents.
The Ugandan parliament has reportedly discussed the investigation, with ministers expressing concern and promising cooperation with Interpol to ensure justice is served.
Additional reporting by Jack Burgess
If you have information relevant to this investigation, please contact runako@bbc.co.uk. For support regarding sexual abuse or feelings of despair, resources are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.