The first detective to arrive at Ggaba Daycare Centre where four children were killed has spoken about Christopher Okello Onyum’s apology, knives and other confessions.
A detective has testified in court about what transpired when he first encountered the accused, Christopher Okello Onyum, at the scene of the alleged crime: Ggaba Early Childhood Development Program.
Detective Assistant Superintendent of Police James Eserait, attached to Kabalagala Police Station, told the court that he was the first officer to arrive at the Ggaba Daycare Centre, where he found Okello.
Eserait testified that during their initial interaction, the suspect allegedly admitted to committing the act, explaining that he had been motivated by a desire for wealth.
He further told the court that Okello said he had spent a significant amount of time planning what eventually occurred.
According to the detective, Okello also revealed that he had purchased several knives prior to the incident, some of which were allegedly used during the commission of the offence.
The court also heard that the accused later expressed regret over his actions.
Eserait stated that Okello claimed he personally contacted police using the emergency hotline 112 after the incident.
“The accused, in his final remarks with me, said he was sorry for what he did, he apologizes, he said he knew that what he did had consequences: he could be jailed or he could be killed,” said Eserait.
“In expressing his fear and apology, the accused also told me that while still here at the scene — having sl@ugh+ered the children, when he saw the crowd coming to respond to the matter, he had made a call to police emergency line 112.”
Background
The case stems from a shocking incident that occurred at a daycare centre in Ggaba, which triggered widespread fear and anger among residents.
Following public outcry, President Yoweri Museveni directed that the trial be conducted publicly to ensure transparency and allow the community to follow proceedings closely.
As a result, the hearings are being held at the grounds of Ggaba Community Church, drawing large crowds of residents and stakeholders.
Despite the gravity of the accusations, Christopher Okello Onyum has pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him.
The trial has since attracted intense national attention, with many Ugandans following developments closely. The proceedings have also reignited debate around security in childcare facilities and the broader justice process in high-profile criminal cases.
It should be remembered that a police surgeon has revealed Christopher Okello Onyum’s mental health history, including hallucinations, while a medical report has insisted that he suffers from Sickle Cell Disease and had taken two months without taking medication. (See Details Here and There).
One former landlord to Christopher Okello Onyum revealed that he loved children, as reported Here.
Meanwhile, a police surgeon has also revealed what he claims Christopher Okello Onyum told him about reason for Killing Four Children, killing his step brother and a plan for him to kill himself. A psychiatrist who examined Okello also addressed reports of his alleged mental disorder. (See Details Here and There).
