Kasese District, Uganda – A manhunt is underway for a local witch doctor accused of defiling two sisters, aged 13 and 15, after manipulating them through a series of deceptive spiritual rituals. The shocking incident has rocked the rural community, with residents calling for swift justice.
The suspect, whose name police have withheld to avoid compromising the investigation, reportedly convinced the girls’ family that the children were suffering from a dangerous ancestral curse that could only be removed through “sacred cleansing.”
According to investigators, the self-proclaimed healer requested to perform the rituals in isolation, insisting that only he could “purge the evil spirits” troubling the sisters. He then took the girls to his shrine over multiple nights, where he allegedly sexually abused them under the pretense of spiritual healing.
The disturbing truth came to light after the older sister confided in a relative about what had been happening. Police were alerted and rushed to the scene, only to discover that the suspect had already fled. His shrine was found abandoned with several of the girls’ personal belongings still inside.
“This man used fear, lies, and tradition as tools to exploit vulnerable minors,” said the district police commander. “It’s a horrifying abuse of trust and culture.”
The victims are now under medical and psychological care, with authorities vowing to ensure they receive long-term support.
Law enforcement officers have opened a file for aggravated defilement, a serious offense that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Security agencies are collaborating with local leaders to track down the fugitive, who is believed to be hiding in the surrounding districts.
Meanwhile, women and child rights groups have condemned the incident and called on government agencies to crack down on unregulated traditional healers, especially those exploiting superstition to commit sexual crimes.
“This case is a grim reminder of how predators can hide behind culture and spirituality,” said a representative from the Uganda Child Protection Network. “It must stop.”
The public is urged to share any information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect.