By Swift Reporter
Proceedings in the high-profile murder trial of Christopher Okello Onyum were abruptly halted on Wednesday after a violent hailstorm disrupted a High Court session in Ggaba.
The trial, presided over by Justice Alice Komuhangi Khauka, was being conducted at Ggaba Community Church grounds when heavy rain and strong winds struck, blowing off the tent that was sheltering the judge, lawyers, the accused, and members of the public.
The trial, which has drawn significant public attention, is being held in an open, mobile court setting near the scene of the crime in Ggaba. Authorities opted for this arrangement to enhance transparency and allow the community to follow the case closely.
What started as a light drizzle quickly escalated into a torrential downpour, forcing security personnel to evacuate court officials and the suspect. The session was adjourned, with proceedings expected to resume once conditions stabilize.
Despite the formal court process continuing, repeated disruptions have sparked speculation among some members of the public attending the trial. Several locals have begun attributing the interruptions to alleged supernatural influences, claiming that the suspect could be using witchcraft or spiritual forces to interfere with the proceedings, we can’t verify or confirm this.
These beliefs have been fueled by a series of incidents surrounding the case. Earlier, a prison van transporting the suspect knocked a journalist at the same venue, raising further alarm among onlookers. Combined with recurring weather disturbances that have repeatedly interrupted court sessions, some community members now view the events as more than coincidence.
Christopher Okello Onyum, 39, is accused of murdering four toddlers aged between 15 months and three years at the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre on April 2, 2026. He was arrested at the scene and has since pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Earlier in the day, testimony from forensic experts presented findings linking the suspect to the crime scene.
Barnabas Harelimana, a forensic biologist with the Directorate of Forensic Services, told court that DNA analysis from multiple exhibits connected Okello to the alleged murder weapon, a knife, as well as to items recovered from the scene including clothing and personal effects.
According to the testimony, the suspect’s DNA was found on the handle of the knife, while DNA from two of the victims was detected on the blade.
Prosecutors say the forensic evidence complements other material presented in court, including CCTV footage, call data records, and witness accounts. The defence maintains Okello’s innocence until proven guilty.
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