By Prosper Mene
Police in Arua City, West Nile region, have detained two young women on charges related to homosexuality after neighbours reported them for allegedly kissing in public.
The suspects, identified as Wendy Faith, 22, a dancer, and Alesi Diana Denise, 21, unemployed, were arrested on February 18, 2026, at Alengo Cell, Pokea Ward, Ayivu West Division. According to police, the women had been sharing a single room since February 12, 2026, and were seen engaging in an open display of affection described as “kissing openly in public.”
Local police spokesperson Josephine Angucia confirmed the arrest, stating that community members lodged a complaint, alleging the pair were involved in “queer and unusual acts” and “practising homosexuality.” Neighbours reportedly provided photographic evidence to support their claims. Officers inspected the scene but recovered no additional items.
The arrests fall under Section 2(1)(2) of Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, a controversial law enacted in May 2023 that criminalizes same-sex relations and related activities. The legislation imposes severe penalties, including up to life imprisonment for consensual same-sex acts, and has been widely criticized internationally as one of the world’s harshest anti-LGBTQ+ measures.
The two women, both in their 20s, have been held in detention without legal representation since their arrest. Police described the incident as a violation stemming from public same-sex affection reported by the community.
This case highlights ongoing enforcement of the 2023 law amid broader reports of arrests, harassment, and human rights concerns for LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda. Rights groups have documented numerous similar incidents since the Act’s passage, though convictions remain relatively uncommon compared to arrests.
Authorities have not yet indicated when the suspects may appear in court or what specific charges they will face beyond the homosexuality-related allegations.
