Kampala socialite Don Nasser jailed for violation and human trafficking

Kampala, Uganda | By Michael Wandati | The Buganda Road court has ordered that socialite Don Nasser, born Nasser Nduhukire, and Promise Ateete be sent to Luzira Prison on charges of human trafficking and violation.

Nduhukire, who had evaded capture for months, was arrested in Kenya over the weekend and extradited to Uganda to face charges. On Monday, the pair appeared before Buganda Road Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi, where they were charged with two counts: aggravated trafficking of a minor for sexual exploitation and desecration.

The prosecution alleged that Nduhukire, along with accomplices who are still at large, used his influence to lure young girls, particularly students, into sexual exploitation, drug use and pornography.

In May, he allegedly took a 16-year-old girl from Tagore Apartments on Acacia Avenue in Kampala and held her at his home in Kira Division for four days, from May 23 to 27.

Nduhukire denied the charges during the hearing. Public prosecutor Ivan Kyazze informed the court that investigations were ongoing. Nduhukire’s co-accused, Promise Ateete, 19, who had previously been granted bail, had her bail revoked following changes to the charge sheet. Both suspects have been remanded in Luzira Prison until October 8, when the case will be heard again.

Nduhukire has been a wanted man since May after a police report accused him and his accomplices of drugging and defiling a police officer’s daughter. There are also indications that other victims may be involved in the case.

Also read: Ugandan parliament demands prosecution of Brian White for sexual abuse

Don Nasser’s downfall is similar to that of other high-profile figures who once flaunted their extravagant lifestyles only to suffer dramatic setbacks.

For example, Brian Kirumira, also known as Bryan White, was charged with attempted murder. He was once a well-known figure in high places and had meetings with President Yoweri Museveni. Now, however, he has largely disappeared from the public eye and his whereabouts are largely unknown.

Charles Olimi, better known as Sipapa, who once felt untouchable, was later arrested along with his wife Shamila Nakiyemba and charged with multiple counts of aggravated theft and money laundering.