A Ugandan national who lured two women to the United Kingdom under the guise of offering them jobs and a place to live has been sentenced to 17 years in prison after being found guilty of multiple sex offences.
Charles Isabirye, 48, was convicted at Leicester Crown Court of four counts of rape, three counts of witness intimidation, and breaching a restraining order. The court heard that Isabirye brought the women into the country from Uganda, promising them employment and accommodation — promises that never materialized.
Instead, both women were subjected to repeated sexual assaults. According to Leicestershire Police, Isabirye used manipulation and intimidation to silence his victims and maintain control over them.
During his trial, Isabirye denied all charges, claiming the two women had fabricated the allegations in collusion. The jury rejected his defence and found him guilty on all counts.
The case came to light when the first victim reported the rape in 2022 but later withdrew her complaint, feeling unable to proceed. In 2023, a second victim came forward, prompting police to recontact the first woman, who then made a full report.
Following a detailed investigation, Isabirye — formerly of Loughborough — was arrested and charged.
Upon sentencing, the court also imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a lifetime restraining order, barring Isabirye from any contact with his victims. He has been placed on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely.
Detective Constable Le Boutillier, who led the investigation, commended the bravery of the two women who stood up to their abuser:
“I have nothing but praise for the victims in this case, not only for coming forward and reporting what happened to them, but for the bravery they showed in court throughout a lengthy, difficult trial.
Isabirye sought to discredit them at every opportunity. While it doesn’t change what they went through, I hope they find some comfort in knowing he’s in prison for a significant amount of time.”
Police have urged victims of sexual abuse and exploitation to report such crimes, assuring that every report will be handled with sensitivity and support.
Isabirye’s conviction serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of exploitation and the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from traffickers and abusers.
