Ugandan Athlete Missing in Japan Returns Home and Is Detained

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] A Ugandan weightlifter who disappeared after entering Japan to participate in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics recently returned to Uganda and is currently under police investigation in custody, the New York Times (NYT) reported on the 27th (local time).

According to the NYT, weightlifter Julius Sekitoleko (20) was detained by police immediately after returning to Uganda from Japan on the 23rd.

Ugandan judicial authorities stated that they are investigating the possibility of fraud conspiracy related to how Sekitoleko entered Japan with his coach despite not qualifying for the Olympics.

He may be released on bail, but the authorities have not disclosed specific details such as the exact charges for his detention or when he might be released.

In response, Sekitoleko's family filed a petition through a lawyer demanding his unconditional release from custody.

Sekitoleko entered Japan on the 19th of last month to participate in a pre-Olympic camp in Izumisano City, Osaka Prefecture, but suddenly disappeared on the 16th while attending the camp.

A note was found in his accommodation stating, "Life in Uganda is difficult, I want to work in Japan."

Later, he was reportedly caught in Yokkaichi, Mie Prefecture in central Japan, according to Kyodo News on the 20th.

He had recently lost his Olympic qualification due to a change in ranking in his weight class and was supposed to return to Uganda, but after purchasing a Shinkansen ticket in Nagoya, he disappeared.