A man running a sex ring operating out of Dubai's most glamorous neighborhoods, and exploiting vulnerable women, has been identified by a BBC investigation.
Charles Mwesigwa, who claims to be a former London bus driver, told undercover reporters he could provide women for sex parties, starting at a price of $1,000. He asserted that the women could fulfill almost any client request.
Rumors of extravagant sex parties in the UAE have circulated for years, but the reality is darker. Our investigation revealed that many young Ugandan women believed they were traveling to the UAE for legitimate jobs, such as supermarket or hotel work.
Some of these women reported instances of extreme degradation, including one client who sought to defecate on women. Although Mwesigwa denies these allegations, asserting he merely assists women in finding accommodation and connections, the testimonies of the women tell a different story.
The investigation also uncovered a disturbing trend: two women linked to Mwesigwa died after falling from high-rise buildings. Their deaths, labeled as suicides, have raised questions about the depth of police investigations, particularly as family members argue more should have been done to find answers.
Through investigations, including the anonymity of several victims, we saw a stark reality where women are trapped in debt to Mwesigwa, forced to repay exorbitant amounts for travel and housing. For instance, one victim mentioned she owed $28,000 merely for her transport and living expenses upon arrival.
Witness accounts from various women describe frequent client requests involving humiliation and extreme fetishes, leading to speculation about racial elements that contribute to these situations. Furthermore, relief efforts led by Ugandan activists highlight the ongoing crisis surrounding exploitation in the Gulf, with many women being promised legitimate work until their reality drastically shifts.
Despite attempts to prevail and draw authorities' attention to these networks, many women continue to suffer unseen. Reports emphasize the urgency of addressing these systemic issues within the context of rising youth unemployment in Uganda and the sham promises offered to hopeful immigrants.
