In brief
In a significant development, Dubai authorities have arrested Charles 'Abbey' Mwesigwa, the alleged head of a sex-trade ring that preyed on vulnerable women. The arrest follows a BBC investigation that exposed the network's operations and the dire circumstances faced by the victims. Mwesigwa has been confirmed to be in custody, and a red notice has been issued against him by Interpol Uganda, indicating ongoing investigations into human trafficking. The case has raised serious concerns and discussions within the Ugandan parliament regarding the treatment of its citizens abroad.
Warning: Contains disturbing content and graphic descriptions of sexual acts
The BBC understands the boss of a degrading sex-trade ring that exploited vulnerable women in Dubai's most glamorous neighbourhoods has been detained in the United Arab Emirates.
Charles 'Abbey' Mwesigwa, who was identified in a recent BBC investigation as running the network, was filmed telling an undercover reporter he could provide women for a sex party at a starting price of $1,000 (£750).
He also stated that the women could do 'pretty much everything' clients wanted them to and claimed to be a former London bus driver.
It is unclear what charges Mwesigwa is facing in the UAE as the country's authorities have not made a public announcement regarding the case.
However, a Dubai law firm has confirmed to the BBC that Mwesigwa is in custody at the Central Prison Centre in Al Awir, Dubai. Reports indicate that a red notice has been issued against him by Interpol Uganda.
This red notice acts as a request to police worldwide for Mwesigwa's detention pending extradition.
The Ugandan embassy in the UAE recently stated that investigations into human trafficking are ongoing and actions have been taken by UAE authorities. This statement is believed to be linked to Mwesigwa's detention.
The BBC World Service investigation featured testimonies from young Ugandan women who said they traveled to Dubai with promises of jobs, only to find themselves in debt and forced into prostitution under horrific conditions.
Some women had initially been led to believe they would work in positions like supermarkets or hotels, as prostitution is illegal in Dubai.
At least one of Mwesigwa's clients allegedly had disturbing preferences, as reported by a victim who was forced into his network.
Mwesigwa has denied all allegations, claiming instead that he facilitates accommodations for women seeking employment and that they willingly followed him to parties.
Additionally, the investigation uncovered the tragic deaths of two women associated with Mwesigwa, which were ruled as suicides, raising concerns about police investigations into their circumstances.
Discussions about this ongoing investigation have surged in the Ugandan parliament, where officials described the situation as 'disturbing' and pledged to collaborate with Interpol for justice.
