Moroto Woman Arrested In Major Child Trafficking Bust, 12 Children Rescued

Authorities believe the suspect was attempting to exploit the children, a serious under sections 3 and 4 of the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act.
A 20-year-old woman, Lolem Lopor Kooli, has been charged with aggravated trafficking in persons after she was intercepted by Police with 12 children aboard a Gateway bus en route to Kampala.
Kooli, a resident of Acakakom Village, Nadunget Subcounty in Moroto District, was arrested following a tip-off from vigilant residents.
The bus, registration number UAU 398M, was stopped in Matany, Napak District’s business hub.
“The children, all from Nadunget Subcounty, are currently in police custody and will soon be reintegrated back into their community,” said Karamoja Police spokesperson Mike Longole.
Authorities believe the suspect was attempting to exploit the children, a crime under sections 3 and 4 of the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act.
The law defines aggravated trafficking as recruiting, transporting, or receiving a person through threats, force, coercion, fraud, or abuse of power.
Conviction carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Police commended the public for reporting the suspicious activity and encouraged citizens to remain alert.
“Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights,” said Longole. “We urge everyone to report such incidents to help protect the vulnerable members of our communities.”
Kooli is expected to face trial soon as investigations continue.