Missing Ugandan Athlete Found In Western Japan

Ugandan weightlifter Julius Ssekitoleko has been found safe in Yokkaichi, Western Japan after being reported missing on Friday, police have confirmed.

The 20-year-old athlete was to fly back to Uganda on July 20 but escaped from his hotel after he failed to qualify for the Tokyo Games.

Ssekitoleko had left a note at his hotel saying he wanted to work in Japan as life Uganda was difficult. He also asked his delegation to hand over his belongings to his wife back in Kampala.

“Today(Tuesday), the man was found in Mie Prefecture with no injuries and no involvement in any crime,” said an Osaka police official, as quoted by AFP.

“He carried his own ID and identified himself. It is not certain to whom we should send the man — the team or the embassy.”

Ssekitoleko was first sighted on camera at Nagoya station where he purchased a ticket and was travelling to Aichi where the largest community of Ugandans is living.

Meanwhile, reports coming from Uganda indicate that Ssekitoleko’s wife, who is expectant, has been evicted from her house due to rent arrears.

Narrating the ordeal, the lady (name withheld) revealed that Ssekitoleko left her with USD 50 which she has been using to feed and also attend prenatal care.

The landlord has been demanding accumulated arrears amounting to USD 150 after failing to pay rent for four months.