Arua City, Uganda: The Police in Arua City are holding two women in custody following their arrest last week after they were allegedly seen kissing in public, an act authorities say contravenes Section 2(1) and (2) of the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023.
The suspects have been identified as Wendy Faith, 22, a dancer, and Alesi Diana Denise, 21, who is unemployed, both arrested on February 18, 2026, at Alengo Cell, Pokea Ward in Ayivu West Division.
According to police, the two women had been living together in a single room since February 12, 2026, and were reportedly seen kissing openly in broad daylight.
West Nile Regional Police spokesperson, SSP Josephine Angucia, said community members alerted authorities after allegedly observing what she described as “queer and unusual acts believed to be sexual in nature.”
“It’s alleged that both suspects have been living together in one room at Alengo Cell from February 12, 2026, to February 18, 2026, when they were arrested on allegations of practicing homosexuality. Information was received from the community that the suspects have been involved in queer and unusual acts believed to be sexual in nature, besides being allegedly seen openly kissing each other in broad daylight,” Angucia said.
She added that it was further alleged that photographs had been taken and that other women frequently gathered at the suspects’ residence.
Police confirmed that the scene was visited and documented, and a search was conducted at the premises, though no items were recovered.
“The suspects were interviewed, and their statements were attached. They were examined on Police Form 3A,” Angucia stated.
The two are currently detained at Ayivu West Division Police Station as investigations continue, and further guidance will be provided as the case progresses.
Section 2(1) and (2) of the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 criminalises homosexual acts and provides that a person convicted under the section may face up to life imprisonment. The law expanded Uganda’s existing criminal provisions on same-sex relations and introduced penalties for what it terms “promotion” and “aggravated” offences.
Human rights organisations have previously raised concerns about the enforcement of the law, while authorities maintain that it reflects Uganda’s legal and moral framework.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
