A Ugandan High Court Judge and United Nations Criminal Tribunal Judge, Lydia Mugambe, has been found guilty of multiple immigration and modern slavery offenses following an investigation by Thames Valley Police in Oxfordshire.
The 49-year-old was convicted at Oxford Crown Court on March 13 on several charges, including facilitating a breach of UK immigration law, forced labor, and conspiracy to intimidate a witness. A jury also found her guilty—by majority verdict—of arranging or facilitating travel with a view to exploitation.
The case came to light on February 10, 2023, when Thames Valley Police received a report that a woman was allegedly being held in servitude at Mugambe’s residence in Kidlington, Oxfordshire.
Investigations revealed that Mugambe arranged for the victim to enter the UK on a visa meant for employment under then-Ugandan Deputy High Commissioner, John Mugerwa. However, instead of working for Mugerwa, the victim was taken in by Mugambe and forced to work without pay as a domestic maid and nanny. 
According to prosecutors, Mugerwa—using his diplomatic privileges—sponsored the victim’s visa, fully aware that she would be exploited by Mugambe. In return, Mugambe allegedly agreed to assist him in an unrelated court case in Uganda.
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While Thames Valley Police investigated Mugerwa’s involvement, he could not be charged due to diplomatic immunity, which the Ugandan Government declined to waive.
Chief Superintendent Ben Clark, Commander for Oxfordshire, strongly condemned Mugambe’s actions, stating:
“Lydia Mugambe is an extremely qualified lawyer, a Ugandan High Court Judge, and a UN Criminal Tribunal Judge. There is no doubt she understood the gravity of her actions, yet she used her legal expertise to manipulate the system and exploit the victim.”
Authorities also revealed that after the allegations surfaced, Mugambe repeatedly claimed diplomatic immunityin an effort to evade prosecution. However, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Office waived any immunity she may have had, allowing the trial to proceed.
The police commended the victim for her courage in coming forward and urged other victims of modern slavery or human trafficking to seek help.
“We will listen, and we will help you,” Chief Superintendent Clark assured, encouraging victims to contact Thames Valley Police or organizations dedicated to combating human trafficking.
Support for the victim throughout the case was provided by Justice and Care and the National Crime Agency’s Specialist Witness Team, both of whom played crucial roles in ensuring her safety and well-being.
Mugambe’s conviction marks a significant victory in the fight against modern slavery, highlighting the dangers of exploitation and abuse of power at the highest levels.
