Kampala, Uganda – August 27th, 2025
The case of Mr. Abdul Mutebi Abdul Swabul, a Ugandan migrant worker who suffered alleged torture and unlawful treatment in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has brought renewed focus to the plight of Ugandan workers abroad and the urgent need for stronger government intervention and protection mechanisms.
Mr. Mutebi, 24, was legally employed in Abu Dhabi and held a valid residence permit through Wadi Aljoom for Electromechanical Equipment Installation and Maintenance. However, he was reportedly detained under suspicion of an undocumented status and subjected to harsh treatment, including electrocution torture by UAE immigration authorities, which left him critically ill and in a coma for over a year.

In a controversial move, Mr. Mutebi was forcibly repatriated to Uganda while still on life support without medical discharge clearance or consent from his family. This repatriation involved coordinated efforts between UAE immigration officials, Ugandan officials, airline and ambulance service providers. Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, he was taken to Rayan Hospital in Kampala, where he remains in intensive care, still handcuffed and under police supervision.

Disturbing reports indicate that the nurse who accompanied Mr. Mutebi during his transfer escaped investigation and returned to UAE without interrogation, prompting concerns about possible collusion or negligence by authorities on both sides.
The Migrant Workers’ Voice, a rights advocacy group representing Mr. Mutebi’s family, has called on Ugandan government agencies including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Internal Affairs, Inspector General of Police, and Interpol Uganda to launch a comprehensive and independent investigation into the circumstances of his detention, treatment, and repatriation.
“We demand full accountability for all those involved in violating Mr. Mutebi’s basic human rights,” said Kayonde Abdallah, President of Migrant Workers’ Voice. “No Ugandan should suffer such inhumane treatment. This case exposes alarming gaps that must be urgently addressed to protect our migrant workers.”
The group has also urged transparent disclosure of all medical records, police documentation, and transport arrangements related to Mr. Mutebi’s case, alongside ensuring that he receives appropriate medical care with family involvement going forward.
Mr. Mutebi’s ordeal highlights wider challenges faced by Ugandan migrant workers who, despite lawfully seeking employment abroad, remain vulnerable to exploitation, neglect, and abuse often compounded by weak diplomatic support and enforcement of rights.
The Ugandan government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the case. Meanwhile, advocacy groups are calling on authorities to strengthen protective policies and response mechanisms for migrant workers, including better regulation of recruitment agencies and improved consular assistance.
This tragic episode calls for urgent action if Uganda is to uphold the dignity and safety of its citizens working beyond its borders.
For additional information, contact:
Kayonde Abdallah
President, The Migrant Workers’ Voice www.migrantworkersvoice.org