UK – A Ugandan judge serving with the United Nations, Lydia Mugambe, has been convicted in the United Kingdom for modern-day slavery after bringing a young Ugandan woman into the country under false pretenses and forcing her into unpaid domestic labor.
Mugambe, 49, who also serves as a High Court judge in Uganda, was found guilty on March 13, 2025, at Oxford Crown Court. The charges against her included conspiring to breach UK immigration laws, facilitating travel for exploitation, forcing someone to work without pay, and conspiring to intimidate a witness.
Prosecutors revealed that Mugambe used her judicial status to deceive UK immigration authorities by securing a work visa for the victim. The visa application falsely stated that the woman would be employed at the Ugandan High Commission. However, upon her arrival in Britain, the victim was taken to Mugambe’s home, where her passport was confiscated, and she was forced to work as an unpaid housemaid and nanny while Mugambe pursued a PhD at Oxford University.
The court heard that Mugambe prevented the victim from seeking legitimate employment and used intimidation to keep her under control. Prosecutors argued that she took advantage of the victim’s naivety and trust, exploiting her vulnerability for personal gain. The victim eventually managed to reach out to a friend, leading to police intervention and her rescue.
During her arrest, Mugambe attempted to invoke diplomatic immunity, telling the police, “I even have immunity.” However, UK authorities rejected her claims, leading to her prosecution and conviction. She is scheduled to be sentenced on May 2, 2025.
Mugambe’s conviction has sparked international outrage, particularly given her role as a judge for the UN International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, which oversees war crimes cases from Rwanda and the former Yugoslavia. Legal analysts believe this case will increase scrutiny on judicial and diplomatic officials involved in human rights violations.
The ruling is considered a landmark case in the UK’s fight against human trafficking and modern slavery, reinforcing the country’s commitment to holding perpetrators accountable, regardless of their status or position of power.
By Damilola Adeleke | March 15, 2025
Adeleke Damilola (ACTION) is a versatile content writer with expertise in news writing and a seasoned media professional and broadcast specialist. Currently serving as News Editor for DNews Info, Damilola is also the CEO of the ACTION brand, committed to shaping lives and establishing a legacy of excellence for present and future generations.
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