A nursing officer in Kalangala District is being sought by police over allegations that he illegally procured an abortion for a 16-year-old Senior Two student who later developed serious health complications.
Brian Masereka, a nursing officer attached to St Joseph Clinic in Kibaale, Mugoye Sub-county, allegedly carried out the procedure over the weekend.
The girl reportedly developed severe complications, including excessive bleeding, shortly after returning home and later collapsed. She is currently receiving treatment at Kalangala Health Centre IV.
Greater Masaka Regional Police spokesperson Twaha Kasirye said preliminary investigations indicate that the teenager identified Masereka as the person who carried out the procedure, allegedly with the assistance of her elder sister.
According to Kasirye, the matter came to light after the girl’s father noticed unusual changes in her condition and alerted a Community Health Worker, who subsequently reported the incident to the authorities.
Police have since arrested Geoffrey Muhangizi, 21, who is accused of impregnating the minor.
Meanwhile, Masereka and the girl’s elder sister, Oliva Natukunda, are reportedly on the run. Police suspect the two of conspiring to procure the alleged abortion.
Kasirye said efforts are underway to trace and arrest the two suspects as investigations continue.
Police have also raised concern about what they describe as persistent sexual abuse and exploitation of young girls in Kalangala District.
Records from the Kalangala District Police Child and Family Protection Unit show that the district records at least 10 cases involving sexual offences against young girls every month.
Authorities are also concerned about the alleged recruitment of teenage girls into commercial sex work by individuals operating within the district, a trend police say is exposing more children to sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse.
Police have appealed to parents, community leaders and residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspected cases of sexual abuse and exploitation involving children.
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