Dubai authorities have detained Charles “Abbey” Mwesigwa, the Ugandan-German national recently exposed by the BBC as allegedly running a degrading sex-trade network in the UAE.
Mwesigwa, who holds dual citizenship, initially appeared before police and was released on bond. However, authorities arrested him after he attempted to flee the country, checking in online for a flight.
According to sources, Mwesigwa is under scrutiny for trafficking young Ugandan women to Dubai under the guise of legitimate employment. Victims were reportedly coerced into prostitution, with some believing they were travelling for jobs in hotels or supermarkets.
Tragic Consequences for Victims
Prostitution is illegal in the UAE. Several women connected to Mwesigwa, including Monic Karungi and Kayla Birungi, died after falling from high-rise apartments. Their deaths were officially ruled as suicides, though families and friends have demanded deeper investigations, raising concerns over potential foul play.
In his defense to BBC reporters, Mwesigwa claimed he simply helped women find accommodation and that they voluntarily attended social events with him.
“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,” he said.
Parliament and Public Outcry in Uganda
The scandal has ignited debate in Uganda’s Parliament, with lawmakers demanding stronger regulation of the labour externalisation sector to prevent exploitation of citizens abroad. Public sentiment has also been vocal, with calls for Mwesigwa’s arrest and for the government to guarantee justice for affected women.
Reports indicate the UAE plans to tighten visa requirements for Ugandans starting January 2026, targeting individuals deemed at high risk of overstaying or engaging in unlawful activities. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Henry Okello Oryem clarified that this is not a blanket travel ban. Uganda’s envoy to Dubai, Zaake Kibedi, confirmed that no comprehensive restrictions would apply to all Ugandan nationals.
Labour Migration at Stake
Uganda annually sends around 4,457 workers to the UAE, mostly in domestic, security, and cleaning roles, with women forming a significant portion. The Mwesigwa case underscores the risks facing migrant workers and highlights the urgent need for safe, regulated labour mobility.
Authorities in Uganda have reportedly issued a red notice through Interpol, requesting Mwesigwa’s global detention pending extradition. He is currently held at the Central Prison Centre in Al Awir, signaling the seriousness of the investigation, though formal charges have not yet been publicly announced.
Calls for Enhanced Protections
The incident has renewed demands for stronger safeguards for Ugandan nationals working abroad. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is engaging with the UAE to ensure migrant welfare and enforce compliance with legal and cultural norms overseas.
This high-profile arrest shines a spotlight on the darker side of labour migration, the exploitation of young women, and the accountability required to protect vulnerable citizens pursuing opportunities abroad.
Call to Action:
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