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 said the women could do pretty much everything clients wanted them to and claimed he was a former London bus driver.
It is not clear what charges - if any - Mwesigwa faces in the UAE, and the country's authorities have not yet made a public announcement about the case.
A Dubai law firm contacted by the BBC has confirmed that Mwesigwa is in custody at the Central Prison Centre in Al Awir, Dubai. A red notice had been issued against him by Interpol Uganda, a request to police worldwide to detain someone pending extradition.
The Ugandan embassy in the UAE stated that investigations of human trafficking are ongoing and actions have been taken by the UAE authorities. This statement is reportedly connected to Mwesigwa's detention.
The BBC World Service investigation included testimonies from young Ugandan women who traveled to Dubai with promises of jobs and opportunities, only to find themselves indebted and forced into prostitution. In some cases, these women believed they were going to work in supermarkets or hotels. Prostitution is illegal in Dubai.
At least one of Mwesigwa's clients regularly asked to defecate on the women, according to Mia, whose name was changed for her safety. She stated she was trapped by Mwesigwa's network.
Mwesigwa has denied all allegations, stating he merely helped women find accommodation and that they willingly followed him to parties due to his wealthy contacts.
The investigation also uncovered two women linked to Mwesigwa who died after falling from high-rise apartments. Although police ruled their deaths as suicides, friends and family believe further investigation is warranted. Mwesigwa claimed that the incidents were investigated by Dubai police.
Discussions about the investigation have been raised in the Ugandan parliament, with ministers labeling it disturbing and pledging to collaborate with Interpol for justice.
