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Molly Katanga being escorted back to Luzira
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KAMPALA – The trial for the murder of businessman Henry Katanga resumed on Thursday, September 12, with a heated cross-examination of Andrew Kizimula Mubiru, Director of Forensics at the Uganda Police Force. Mubiru was questioned by defence lawyer Elison Karuhanga regarding forensic evidence collected from the crime scene, including DNA analysis of Katanga, his wife Molly Katanga, and other individuals implicated in the case.
The case revolves around Molly Katanga, who stands accused of murdering her husband, Henry, with the help of her daughters, Patricia Kakwanza and Martha Nkwanzi, as well as domestic worker George Amanyire and nursing officer Charles Otai. The latter two are charged with destroying evidence and being accessories to the murder. Katanga, a prominent businessman, was shot in the head on November 2, 2023, at their residence along Mbuya Chwa II Road in Kampala.
Defence lawyer Ellison Karuhanga in the murder case of businessman Henry Katanga, during court session
During the session before Justice Isaac Muwata, the court delved deep into the DNA analysis conducted by the Uganda Police Force. Defence lawyers focused on the DNA percentages found on various items, including a projectile, gun parts, and household objects. Karuhanga pressed Mubiru on the DNA results generated using the Euroformix software, emphasizing statistical uncertainties.
Mubiru confirmed that Henry Katanga’s DNA was the main contributor on a bullet that was recovered, but Karuhanga raised questions about the margin of error in the DNA results. The defence lawyer pointed out that DNA contributions from Henry and Molly were very close, with Katanga’s upper bound at 41.96% and Molly’s lower bound at 40.73%, casting doubt on the exact major contributor.
Additionally, the court examined the crime scene procedure manual used by the Uganda Police Force, questioning Mubiru about whether it had been properly followed. Mubiru admitted to approving the manual, though the defence questioned the inconsistencies in its implementation. The defence also pressed Mubiru on his multiple visits to the Katanga home, querying whether proper protocol was followed in logging entry and exit times.
Defence lawyers focused on the DNA percentages found on various items, including a projectile, gun parts, and household objects
The trial has been adjourned to September 26 for further cross-examination of Mubiru. The case continues to draw public attention due to the high-profile nature of the Katanga family and the complexities surrounding the forensic evidence presented.
Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Samali Wakooli, Chief State Attorneys Jonathan Muwaganya and Anna Kiiza are leading the prosecution, while prominent lawyer Mwesigwa Rukutana monitors proceedings on behalf of the deceased’s family.
Torch Media Africa
