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Officer questioned on handling of crucial crime scene evidence in Katanga trial

Officer questioned on handling of crucial crime scene evidence in Katanga trial

Key Developments in the Case of Henry Katanga’s Death

The tragic death of Henry Katanga, a prominent businessperson and royal from the Ankole Kingdom, has sparked significant legal scrutiny. On November 2, 2023, Katanga was found dead at his residence in Mbuya, Kampala, under circumstances believed to involve a domestic altercation with his wife, Molly. This incident led to widespread media coverage and a judicial investigation that has now entered a critical phase.

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Courtroom Drama Over Evidence Handling

During a recent High Court session presided over by Justice Rosette Kania, the cross-examination of Assistant Inspector of Police Emmanuel Oluku, a scene of crime officer involved in processing the late businessperson’s home, took an unexpected turn. Defence lawyer MacDusman Kabega raised serious questions about Oluku’s competence and the handling of crucial evidence collected shortly after Katanga’s death.

Oluku admitted he could operate a pistol but only with one hand, which raised concerns about his ability to handle such sensitive items. He also acknowledged that fingerprints could be left on a weapon during handling, including on the trigger and cocking mechanism. The court heard that forensic exhibits were submitted multiple times without proper documentation, highlighting inconsistencies in submission dates and chain of custody. These discrepancies were pointed out by Kabega, who questioned the integrity of the evidence.

Concerns About Missing Documentation

Oluku eventually admitted that some exhibits were not under his control. The 20th prosecution witness also acknowledged that despite swabbing a pistol for DNA, there was no mention of this in his report, nor any evidence that it was ever analyzed. Kabega criticized the lack of gunshot residue testing on Katanga’s body, suggesting a possible cover-up. While Oluku denied suppressing evidence of residue on Katanga’s body, the allegations have cast doubt on the thoroughness of the investigation.

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Testimony from the Scene of the Crime

About a fortnight ago, Oluku testified about being instructed to visit Katanga’s home in Mbuya following the news of his death. He described how he collected several exhibits from the master bedroom, which was the site of the alleged crime. During his walk-through, Oluku observed a body on a mattress placed on the floor, with suspected blood stains on the floor, the master bed, and the walls. He also noted the presence of a pistol placed towards the foot of the master bed.

Oluku added that he secured the gun by taking normal precautionary safety measures without touching the trigger. His testimony provided a detailed account of the scene, but the subsequent questioning by the defence has raised further concerns about the reliability of the evidence collected.

Background of the Case

Henry Katanga’s death has led to the arrest and charging of several individuals. Molly, his wife, was later arrested, charged, and remanded to Luzira prison. She is jointly charged with her two daughters, Martha Nkwanzi and Patricia Kakwanza, who face lesser charges of destroying evidence and being an accessory after the fact of murder. Other suspects include Charles Otai, a medic who was among the first to arrive at the home on the day of the incident, and Mr George Amanyire, who was a shamba boy at the Katangas’ home when the events unfolded.

As the case continues to unfold, the focus remains on the handling of evidence and the credibility of those involved in the investigation. The courtroom drama highlights the complexities of legal proceedings in high-profile cases and underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the justice system.