Kampala, Uganda | By Michael Wandati | In a disturbing incident in Kampala, police are currently awaiting examination results from pathologists concerning a disturbing discovery of a piece of meat allegedly found in restaurant food served by a vendor resembling a young boy’s penis.
The incident came to light following a complaint lodged by Mr Ronald Bwemage last Friday, alleging that he found a suspicious male genital organ part in a meal served by local food vendor, Mariam Namugerwa. Following the complaint, Mariam and her waitress, Josephine Nakawoja, were apprehended and are currently detained at the Central Police Station in Kampala.
According to reports, Ronald had ordered a typical lunch of rice, matooke, and meat from Mariam’s stall at the E-Tower Arcade along Buganda Road. To his shock, he found what appeared to be a male genital organ in the dish.
Luke Oweyisigire, the deputy Kampala Metropolitan police spokesperson, emphasized the necessity of expert examination, stating, “As police, we cannot rely solely on our observations to determine whether the object is indeed a human body part.”
“We have submitted it to pathology experts to inform us on what this could be, but the two suspects are still in our custody,” Owoyesigyire said.
Despite the gravity of the accusations, the Uganda Police Force has released both suspects after they provided significant sureties to secure their bond. However, investigations continue as police have transferred the evidence to government analytical laboratories and pathologists for meticulous examination.
This incident has shaken the community, underscoring the crucial need for rigorous food safety protocols and vigilant supervision of local food establishments.
Workers in the vicinity of Buganda Road have however refuted the allegations, suggesting that it could be a deliberate attempt to sabotage their colleague’s business.
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Henry Kaula, the Manager of Health Inspection, Education, and Sanitation at Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), outlined the rigorous certification process for food-related businesses. Kaula explained that the health unit conducts biannual inspections of premises and personnel before issuing certificates of compliance. These inspections cover a range of establishments including restaurants, eateries, hotels, bars, and water sources, ensuring they meet the minimum health standards.
Kaula emphasized that the Directorate of Health also conducts health education and sanitation initiatives. In cases where owners fail to comply, KCCA proceeds with warnings before resorting to enforcement measures.
“Those who fail to meet requirements results in warnings and closure, but Some Kampala eateries, especially those on streets, operate illegally without licenses,” says Kaula.
Residents are advised to steer clear of substandard eateries to safeguard their health.
The investigation remains ongoing, with the police awaiting additional findings to determine the subsequent course of action.