Mparo health centre nurse remanded over raping expectant mother

Darius Orikiriza, an enrolled nurse at Mparo health centre IV, Rukiga district has been remanded for allegedly raping an expectant mother.     

The incident allegedly took place last month on August 21. The victim, a 20-year-old woman from Maaya village, Kitanga parish, Kashambya sub-county, had visited the facility for a pregnancy checkup and was referred to undergo an ultrasound scan for a diagnosis regarding the status of her pregnancy.

Upon arriving at the scanning area, Orikiriza instructed the victim to undress completely and forcefully had sex with her against her will. The victim’s alarm for help prompted the authorities at the facility to intervene, and the police were immediately alerted.

On Friday, Orikiriza appeared before Kabale Chief Magistrate’s court and was charged with rape contrary to Sections 123 and 124 of the penal code act. State prosecutor, Julie Najjunju told court that investigations into the matter are still ongoing.   

Magistrate Derrick Byamugisha did not allow Orikiriza to enter a plea, saying that the offense is capital in nature and can only be heard by the High court. Byamugisha remanded Orikiriza to Ndorwa prison until September 18, 2023. 

Ronah Tweheyo Rwebandaira, Rukiga district secretary for health services, said that there had been previous complaints against Orikiriza from other mothers, but due to a lack of substantial evidence, their efforts to address the issue had not yielded results.