Sex workers attacked by clients

Commercial sex workers in Guruve have raised alarm over a surge in violent attacks by clients, saying some of the assaults have left them seriously injured and fearful for their lives.

One of the victims, Ruth Mugawu* (not her real name), said she was attacked with a sharp object by a client after a short-time encounter.

"I got a client at a night club last night, and he said he had US$3 for a short time," she said. "I told him to add more money, and we finally agreed on US$4. After the act, he suddenly assaulted me and cut me with a sharp object."

Mugawu was later taken to Guruve Hospital for treatment.

It is alleged that on the same night, another sex worker was also attacked after being lured by a client who later drove her to a secluded area and assaulted her.

Speaking to The Standard, one of the sex workers urged her colleagues to be more cautious when dealing with strangers.

"I am urging my colleagues not to entertain people they do not know because some clients are now dangerous," she said.

Many sex workers in the district reportedly avoid reporting such incidents to the police due to stigma and fear of harassment, leaving perpetrators unpunished and violence against them unchecked.