Mukono, Uganda | By Michael Wandati | Mr. Kato John Ssenfuma, 40, a teacher at Hillside College Mityana, has been arrested by the police for attempting to defile a 15-year-old female student at her home.
According to Kanyanya Territorial Police where the suspect is currently detained, the arrest follows a complaint lodged by Ms. Sheilah, 26-year-old, a resident of Kyebando Erisa Zone in Kawempe Division, Kampala District, who is the guardian of the 15-year-old student.
The student’s parents reportedly caught Mr. Ssenfuma by surprise, apprehending him as he entered the family’s living room. Videos capturing Mr. Ssenfuma pleading for mercy from the minor’s parents are circulating on social media.
According to reports, Mr. Ssenfuma had engaged in a covert romantic relationship with the female student, whose identity has been withheld because she is a minor.
Their WhatsApp communication unveiled that he had provided her with financial assistance and had expressed a desire to meet before the conclusion of the holidays.
In a WhatsApp conversation discovered by the girl’s parents and seen by this publication, Mr. Ssenfuma suggested, “Instead of spending money on hiring a room, why can’t I give it to you because you need money.” He also sought reassurance from his student, asking, “Are you safe at home and in a gated place?.”
In their conversation, the girl suggested meeting at her home, citing the absence of her aunt as a convenient setting for their encounter.
Despite Mr. Senfuma John, 40, expressing concerns about potential interference from neighbors, the girl reassured him that the meeting would be secure.
On January 13, 2024, Mr. Ssemfuma traveled to the designated venue, only to be confronted by the girl’s parents. They interrogated him about his presence and subjected him to physical assault. It was later revealed that he was a teacher at Hillside High School in Mityana.
Teacher Senfuma John has subsequently been handed over to the authorities to face the consequences of his actions, which could potentially lead to the revocation of his teaching credentials.
During his arrest, detectives found two boxes of unused ‘Kiss’ condoms and a Shs 1,000 note in his pockets.
An examination by a Police surgeon confirmed the well-being of the girl, as the intended activity did not transpire.
According to the Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, “The case file has been submitted to the office of the Resident State Attorney, and the Kanyanya Police has received guidance on the next steps. The file is pending resubmission for sanctioning, and the suspect will face charges as determined by the Prosecution.”
Also Read: Teacher in Uganda arrested for eloping with 14-year-old girl
The unfortunate incident sheds light on the increasing cases of sexual abuse perpetrated by school teachers against minors. In 2019, detectives from the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Unit at CID Headquarters arrested Jimmy Walugembe, a 29-year-old teacher at Springfield International School, on charges of Aggravated Defilement involving an 8-year-old schoolgirl. The suspect allegedly lured the victim into a toilet and engaged in inappropriate sexual conduct.
Observers emphasize the critical importance of parents safeguarding their children from potential sexual predators, especially during extended holiday periods.
