A man accused of brutally killing four children at a daycare centre in Kampala has sparked outrage after reportedly laughing during court proceedings.
The suspect, Christopher Okello Onyum, appeared in court this week as his trial commenced following the tragic incident that occurred on April 2, 2026.
According to prosecutors, Onyum allegedly stormed the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre and attacked children with a knife, killing four toddlers identified as Gideon Eteku (2), Kaise Alungat (2), Ignatius Sserwange (3), and Ryan Odeke (2).
The accused, who holds both Ugandan and American citizenship, is currently facing four counts of murder.
Court proceedings revealed that although Onyum had earlier made a statement admitting to the killings, he pleaded not guilty when formally arraigned.
“I plead not guilty to this charge, my lord,” he told the court.
Prosecutors disclosed that the suspect recorded a “charge and caution statement” in which he confessed to the crime, allegedly describing the act as a form of “fortune hunting or enrichment.”
A medical evaluation presented in court reportedly indicated that Onyum’s thought processes were normal, but also noted his belief in acquiring wealth through human sacrifice. Authorities further confirmed that he is mentally fit to stand trial.
Investigations suggest that the suspect gained access to the facility by posing as a parent before launching what prosecutors described as a “carefully planned” and sustained attack.
The daycare centre reportedly caters to vulnerable and malnourished children, including infants and toddlers between three months and three years old.
During the hearing, emotions ran high as relatives of the victims openly jeered at the defendant.
The case has since triggered widespread outrage across Uganda, with many citizens expressing anger over both the incident and the pace of legal proceedings.
Reports indicate that an angry mob had earlier attempted to lynch the suspect before security operatives intervened.
Meanwhile, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the country’s army chief and son of President Yoweri Museveni, has stated that authorities would seek the death penalty against the accused.
The trial is expected to continue as the court examines evidence surrounding one of the most disturbing crimes to shake the nation in recent times.
