The High Court sitting in Soroti has sentenced a 33-year-old man, William Opolot, to 32 years in prison after he was found guilty of defiling a five-year-old girl in Amuria District.
The ruling, delivered by Justice Boniface Wamala, brings closure to a case that sparked outrage across the community when it occurred on 4th May 2019.
According to prosecution, the victim’s mother, Akullo Jenifer, told court that on the day of the incident she had briefly gone to a neighbour’s home.
Upon returning, she noticed her daughter emerging from Opolot’s house “holding her nicker with blood pouring.” Akullo said she immediately raised an alarm, prompting neighbours to rush to the scene and apprehend the suspect before handing him over to police.
Medical reports presented in court confirmed that the child had suffered injuries consistent with sexual assault.
Despite the overwhelming evidence, Opolot denied any wrongdoing throughout the trial, insisting he was being falsely accused.
Justice Wamala, while delivering the sentence, condemned Opolot’s actions as “a grave and heartless violation against a vulnerable and defenseless child.”
He emphasized that the severity of the punishment was meant to reflect society’s zero tolerance for sexual violence against minors and to deter would-be offenders.
The Victims Mother Akullo has welcomed the court’s decision, noting that the harsh sentence sends a strong message to perpetrators of child abuse.
She said the victim is currently receiving counselling and support as she continues her recovery.
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