crime 15 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ggaba Daycare Murder Trial Paused for Suspect's Medical Check
The Ggaba daycare murder trial at Ggaba Community Church was adjourned for 30 minutes after defense lawyer Sarah Awelo reported that suspect Christopher Okello Onyum was emotionally unwell and needed a doctor's assessment. The interruption occurred mid-testimony of prosecution witness Hashim Juma, sparking unease among attendees. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ggaba-daycare-murder-trial-court-adjourns-for-30-minutes-to-allow-suspect-see-doctor-5424514
The community hearing for the Ggaba daycare murder case at Ggaba Community Church grounds faced a brief halt on Wednesday afternoon. The court granted a 30-minute break to allow prime suspect Christopher Okello Onyum to receive medical attention from his doctor.
Defense lawyer Sarah Awelo informed High Court Judge Alice Komuhangi Khaukha that her client was emotionally unwell, prompting the urgent request. “Our client is not emotionally well. We pray for a short break such that the doctor sees him,” Awelo stated.
Judge Komuhangi approved the adjournment, but it caused murmurs and visible discomfort among the public spectators. Some wondered if the suspect was experiencing an emotional breakdown.
The pause came midway through testimony from prosecution witness Hashim Juma, a car rental director. Juma was detailing how Okello allegedly rented a vehicle from his company on April 1 and 2 when proceedings stopped.
At the time of reporting, over an hour had passed since the break, and Okello had not returned to the makeshift courtroom. The trial, held in the community where the alleged stabbings of four preschool toddlers occurred on April 2, continues to attract large crowds and heavy security.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)