Police in Kasangati is holding a bodaboda rider accused of aggravated defilement of his 13-year-old stepdaughter.

The suspect has been identified as Ronald Mayanja, a bodaboda rider and resident of Lutete Village, Nangabo Parish, Kasangati Town Council, Wakiso District.

According to Racheal Kawala, the Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, Mayanja was arrested over allegations that he sexually exploited the minor for months and later impregnated her.

The victim had reportedly been living under Mayanja's care as his stepdaughter since the age of six, following the death of her mother.

"It is alleged that the 13-year-old girl was taken in by her stepfather at the age of six after her mother died," Kawala said.

"It is alleged that between the ages of 12 and 13, the suspect repeatedly defiled the victim and later sent her away after impregnating her. The matter is still under investigation," she added.

Kawala condemned the incident and reaffirmed the police's commitment to protecting children.

"We strongly condemn all acts that violate the rights of children and reaffirm our commitment to protecting their safety, dignity, and wellbeing," she said.