Woman arrested for allegedly forcing stepson, 8, to swallow 46 needles

Police in Mitooma District are holding a 45-year-old woman for allegedly forcing her eight-year-old stepson to swallow dozens of sewing needles.

Juliet Tushabeomwe, 45, was arrested in Mitooma District for allegedly forcing her eight-year-old stepson to swallow 46 needles over a two-week period.

The child is receiving specialized care at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital following surgery to remove the objects.

The Greater Bushenyi Police Commander, Godfrey Achiria, confirmed the arrest, stating that investigations are underway to determine the full extent of the abuse.

The ordeal came to light after the young boy suffered nearly two weeks of excruciating abdominal pain.

Concerned for his health, his aunt, Eunice Birungi, took him for medical examinations.