The High Court in Kampala has commenced hearing of a high-profile murder case against Christopher Okello Onyum, 38, who has pleaded not guilty to four counts of murder arising from the killing of four toddlers at the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre earlier this month.
The proceedings, now being conducted through a community court session in Ggaba, have drawn significant public attention, with residents and affected families closely following the case that shocked the nation.
A Tragedy That Rocked Ggaba
The charges against Okello stem from the events of April 2, 2026, when he allegedly attacked children at Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre in Makindye Division.
Prosecution states that the accused gained access to the facility by posing as a parent seeking to enroll a child. After reportedly paying fees to staff, he is said to have turned violent, attacking toddlers who were at the centre.
Four children, Gideon Eteku, Keisha Agenorwoth, Ignatius Sseruyange, and Ryan Odeke, lost their lives in the incident, which has since been described as one of the most disturbing crimes involving children in recent years.
Arrest and Public Outrage
Okello was arrested shortly after the incident, following intervention by staff and security personnel at the scene.
The killings sparked anger among residents, with some attempting to attack the suspect before security forces intervened. The incident also raised urgent concerns about safety standards and access control in childcare centres.
From Magistrate’s Court to High Court
Following his arrest, Okello was presented before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court, where he was formally charged and remanded to Luzira Prison.
The case was later committed to the High Court, as required for capital offences such as murder.
In a move aimed at improving access to justice, authorities directed that the trial be conducted within the Ggaba community through a mobile court arrangement.
Not Guilty Plea Sets Stage for Trial
At the latest court sitting, Okello denied all four charges read against him.
His plea paves the way for a full trial, during which the prosecution is expected to present forensic evidence, witness testimony, and investigative findings linking him to the killings.
The defence will have the opportunity to challenge the evidence as the court determines whether the accused is guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
Investigations and Evidence
Investigators have indicated that they assembled substantial evidence, including:
- Witness accounts from daycare staff and first responders
- Forensic analysis, CCTV footage and medical reports
- Circumstantial evidence regarding the suspect’s movements prior to the attack
Authorities have also examined the suspect’s background as part of broader inquiries.
Community Seeks Justice
The trial continues to unfold under intense public scrutiny, with families of the victims demanding justice.
Residents in Ggaba, still grappling with the trauma of the incident, have welcomed the decision to hold proceedings within the community, saying it brings transparency and accountability closer to those affected.
What Lies Ahead
The court is expected to hear a series of witnesses in the coming sessions as the prosecution builds its case.
If convicted, Okello faces severe penalties under Ugandan law, including life imprisonment or the death penalty.
