Ugandan weightlifter who disappeared in Japan returns home

By Godfrey Olukya

KAMPALA, Uganda (AA) - A Ugandan weightlifter who disappeared in Japan was returned home Friday.

Authorities in Uganda said Julius Ssekitoleko disappeared from an Olympic training camp in Japan.

“Ssekitoleko did not meet the set Olympic standards in the latest International rankings and consequently fled the Team Uganda camp during pre-Olympics training in western Japan last week. In a joint operation between Japanese Authorities and the Ugandan Embassy in Japan, Ssekitoleko was tracked down in Mie Prefecture on 20th July 2021.’’

Ssekitoleko was seen off at the airport by officials from the Ugandan Embassy and Japanese Immigration Authorities who ensured his safe and orderly passage out of Japan.

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, he was received by officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Education and Sports.

Uganda said it is committed to the Ssekitoleko’s continuous rehabilitation to assist him to further develop his career.

His disappearance last Friday from Olympic village facilities in Izumisano City caused a coronavirus scare as thousands of foreigners jetted in to take part in the Games.

Ssekitoleko is being held at the Jinja Road Police Station in Kampala as his mother rioted outside police offices demanding his release.