The Katanga murder trial took a dramatic turn as Justice Rosette Kania presided over a tense session involving the testimony of Assistant Inspector of Police Emmanuel Oluku, the officer who first processed the crime scene.
Defense lawyer MacDusman Kabega rigorously questioned Oluku about inconsistencies in how he handled key evidence. Oluku conceded that he could only fire a pistol using one hand and admitted that fingerprints could remain on various parts of the weapon, including the trigger and cocking mechanism.
Furthermore, Oluku acknowledged that several exhibits were submitted without proper documentation. The defense highlighted mismatches in the chain of custody and submission dates, especially for items intended for DNA testing. Although Oluku swabbed the pistol for DNA, he never included that detail in his official report. There was also no proof that the sample underwent forensic analysis.
Kabega criticized the failure to conduct gunshot residue tests on Henry Katanga’s body, raising concerns of a potential cover-up. Although Oluku denied suppressing any evidence, the omission raised eyebrows in court.
Earlier in his testimony, Oluku explained that he visited the Katanga home in Mbuya after being dispatched to respond to the incident. He said he entered the master bedroom—the alleged crime scene—where he observed a body on a mattress and blood stains on the walls, bed, and floor. A cocked pistol lay near the foot of the bed, which he secured following standard safety procedures.
Background of the Katanga Murder Trial
On November 2, 2023, Henry Katanga, a businessman and royal from Ankole Kingdom, died under suspicious circumstances at his residence in Kampala. Investigators suspect that a domestic altercation with his wife, Molly Katanga, led to his death.
Authorities arrested Molly and charged her with murder. Her daughters, Martha Nkwanzi and Patricia Kakwanza, face charges related to destroying evidence and being accessories after the fact. Two additional suspects include Charles Otai, a medic who arrived early at the home, and George Amanyire, the family’s shamba boy.
Justice Kania emphasized that proper procedure in handling evidence is vital. As the Katanga murder trial continues, the credibility of the forensic process will remain a key point of contention. Observers expect the defense to press further on gaps in evidence collection and analysis.
Read: Molly Katanga to Stand Trial for Husband’s Murder in High Court
