Police in Namayingo are holding in custody Okato Johnson Rapando, a Kenyan national, for torturing his son, identified as Rapando Emmanuel.
According to SCP Enanga Fred, the police spokesperson, Okato, who has been staying in Butahandu village with his wife and son for the last five years, was captured on camera torturing his six-year-old son on August 21, 2023.
“In the images, the suspect had tied both hands and legs of his 6-year-old boy using four ropes and tied him against two poles. He then got a stick, which he used to aggressively punish his son,” Enanga said.
Enanga added that upon getting the information, Bwire Nelcko, the area chairman, rescued the victim, who was transported by the police to Oklings clinic in Mukorobi Trading Centre for treatment.
“The suspect was arrested and is now in police custody. Exhibits of broken sticks, a panga, and two ropes were recovered from the scene,” he added.
Enanga also said that the incident continues to show that child tortures are real and in existence and that many parents still use aggressive punishments as a form of disciplining their children.
“Others view their children as their own possession, which is dangerous and against the law,” he said.
The police urge victims to seek the services of the Child and Family Protection Unit at the nearest police unit, which will help address their family issues.