The High Court’s Criminal Division resumed hearings in the high-profile murder trial of businessman Henry Katanga, with forensic expert Derrick Kasawali presenting crucial evidence linking the accused to the crime scene.
Kasawali, a firearms examiner and head of Uganda Police’s Ballistics and Toolmark Unit, testified on gunpowder residue found on the clothing and hands of Molly Katanga, the widow of the deceased.Molly, her daughters Martha Nkwanzi and Patricia Kakwanzi, the family’s shamba boy George Amanyire, and nurse Charles Otai, are charged with Katanga’s murder, which occurred on November 2, 2023.
The prosecution alleges that the accused played roles in the fatal shooting at the Katanga home. Kasawali’s forensic analysis aims to establish the murder weapon’s use and its connection to the suspects.
Among the exhibits examined were a black pistol, live ammunition, a projectile, and a magazine recovered from the master bedroom and crime scene, all suspected to be linked to the shooting.
Kasawali’s findings confirmed the pistol was in working condition and capable of firing live rounds. A spent cartridge recovered from Katanga’s bed was linked to this firearm through ballistic testing.
Gunpowder residue was detected on Molly Katanga’s left hand, a Kitengi dress from the bedroom, a maroon and white dress belonging to Patricia, and wounds on the deceased’s left ear.
The black pistol and the bullet suspected of killing Katanga were displayed in court, further supporting the prosecution’s claim that the weapon was used in the fatal incident.
Kasawali’s testimony reinforces the state’s case, suggesting a direct forensic link between Molly and the firearm. However, the defense is expected to challenge the interpretation of the forensic evidence.
As the trial progresses, public interest remains high, with legal teams preparing to scrutinize witness testimonies and forensic reports to determine the true circumstances of Katanga’s death.
