Uganda Police have rescued 37 children and young adults who were allegedly trafficked to Ntoroko District after being lured with false promises of education and sponsorship. Authorities have also arrested a bishop believed to be behind the recruitment operation.

The suspect, Passy Andrew Landekere, 39, a bishop at Christ Way Generational Ministries, was arrested. He resides in Karaga, Kiteezi, Kasangati Town Council. He is currently in custody as investigations proceed.

According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala, the victims — aged between 7 and 20 years — were recruited from various districts including Kole, Apac, Kamuli, Mityana, Jinja, Kyegegwa, Napak, and Luweero. They were transported to Ntoroko District where they stayed for about one month.

“The suspect recruited the children from different districts claiming he would educate them and secure scholarships for them. However, the promises were not fulfilled, prompting police intervention and rescue operations,” Kawala stated.

The rescued group consists of 14 boys and 23 girls. They are now under police protection while efforts are underway to trace their families and reunite them safely.

A case of suspected human trafficking has been registered under CRB 128/2026. Statements have been recorded from the victims to aid the ongoing probe. Detectives are also looking into possible involvement of other individuals in the recruitment, transportation, and accommodation of the victims.

The suspect remains in custody as police continue to establish the full details of the alleged trafficking scheme.