Uganda’s Weightlifter Julius Ssekitoleko who went AWOL in Japan has been found.
National Council of Sports (NCS) General Secretary Bernard Ogwel has confirmed that Ssekitoleko has been found and he is currently in custody.
“Yes Ssekitoleko (Julius) has been found and i can confirm that he is custody.” Ogwel confirmed.
Ssekitoleko disappeared from camp a few days ago and has been missing since.
Before his disappearance, he left a note saying that he wanted to stay and work in Japan.
Government had recently revealed their disappointment that he had disappeared ahead of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic games.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Okello Oryem was gutted and confirmed that they were collaborating with Japan authorities to bring Ssekitoleko back home.
“It is a very challenging situation – When a very young man who we trained and prepared to go and represent the country abroad decides to defect jump ship,” Minister Oryem said on Monday during a meet with Japan Ambassador.
“This is the very reason why the Police is investigating and getting to the bottom on why he became part of the team.
Sports Minister Hamson Obua was headed for Japan today (Tuesday) to ensure Ssekitoleko is found. It is yet to be known whether he has already left or not.
Ssekitoleko was part of Team Uganda’s first batch that was training for the games in the Izumisano City. He was later deemed ineligible to take part in the games.
Ssekitoleko who was to take part in the 67kg weight category, was expected to fly back home Today (July 20).
National Council of Sports and Uganda Olympic Committee President explained that Ssekitoleko went to Japan in anticipation that he would be able to qualify with the quota system.
