Ugandan authorities have detained two women in their twenties following allegations of public same-sex intimacy, marking another enforcement case under the nation’s stringent Anti-Homosexuality Act. The arrest occurred on February 18 in Arua, a northwestern city, after local residents provided photographic evidence to police showing the women kissing outdoors.
Police spokesperson Josephine Angucia confirmed that neighbors reported witnessing homosexual behavior and documented the incident before alerting law enforcement. Additionally, residents raised suspicions about overnight gatherings at the women’s one-bedroom residence, suggesting possible same-sex activities. The case has now been forwarded to prosecutors for evaluation and potential judicial action.
Under Uganda’s controversial legislation, enacted in May 2023, consensual same-sex relations carry life imprisonment penalties, while aggravated offenses including repeat incidents or involvement of minors may result in capital punishment. The detained women currently remain in custody without legal representation according to AFP reports.
The law has drawn significant international criticism since its implementation, with human rights advocate Frank Mugisha highlighting increased risks of blackmail and extortion against LGBTQ+ individuals who fear reporting violations. Western governments and global organizations including the United Nations have condemned the legislation, leading to temporary suspension of World Bank lending until 2025. Uganda maintains its conservative Christian values amid ongoing international scrutiny regarding human rights protections.