A BBC World Service investigation has uncovered shocking evidence of a sex trafficking ring in Dubai’s most glamorous neighbourhoods, allegedly operated by a Ugandan man exploiting vulnerable women who were lured under false pretenses of legitimate work.
The man, Charles Mwesigwa, who claims he was once a London bus driver, was secretly filmed offering women for sex parties starting at $1,000 per night, boasting that many were “open-minded” and could do “pretty much everything” clients desired.
Picture: Image of alleged sex trafficker Charles Mwesigwa
Dozens of young Ugandan women say they were promised jobs in supermarkets and hotels but instead found themselves trapped in sex work, indebted to Mwesigwa and subjected to degrading and violent acts. Some clients reportedly demanded extreme fetishes, including defecating on the women.
At least two women tied to his network — Monic Karungi and Kayla Birungi — died after falling from Dubai high-rises. While authorities ruled their deaths suicides, their families and friends insist the cases were never thoroughly investigated, especially as both women had reportedly sought to escape Mwesigwa’s control.
Victims describe being forced into crushing debt from the moment they arrived, told they owed thousands of dollars for airfare, visas, food, and accommodation. One survivor, Mia, explained: “That means you have to work hard, hard, hard, pleading for men to come and sleep [with] you.” Another, Lexi, said police dismissed her pleas for help, telling her: “You Africans cause problems for each other. We don’t want to get involved.”
Although Mwesigwa denies the accusations, claiming he merely helps women find accommodation and social connections, former associates say he uses multiple aliases, pays off security at nightclubs, and avoids legal exposure by renting apartments and cars in others’ names.
The investigation exposes the hidden exploitation behind Dubai’s image of wealth and luxury, revealing a darker reality where vulnerable women are commodified for profit.
As Christians, we are reminded that God calls His people to speak up against such injustice and defend those who have no voice.
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” — Proverbs 31:8–9 (NIV)