Presiding judge Alice Komuhangi Khauka on Thursday found that the prosecution had established sufficient grounds to require an explanation from the suspect, following the close of its case.

In her ruling, the judge said the state had presented 17 witnesses whose testimonies and evidence warranted the accused to respond to all four counts. She directed Okello to prepare his defence, outlining the legal options available to him under the law.

The court heard that the accused may choose to remain silent, make an unsworn statement, or testify under oath. Each option carries different implications, including whether or not he will be cross-examined by prosecutors.

Key evidence presented during the trial included forensic findings linking the suspect to the crime scene. A state witness, Assistant Superintendent of Police Harelimana Bernabas, a forensic biologist, testified that DNA recovered from a knife allegedly used in the killings matched that of the accused.

The knife, described as black with a silver handle, was reportedly recovered near a school fence and formed part of over 40 exhibits analyzed by forensic experts.

Prosecutors contend that on April 2, 2026, at Ggaba Trading Centre in Makindye Division, Okello intentionally caused the deaths of four children—Eteku Gideon, Keisha Agenorwoth Otim, Sseruyange Ignitius, and Odeke Ryan—all aged below three years.

Court was further told that the suspect had earlier visited the childcare facility where the children were killed, seeking admission for his own child. He allegedly returned later, completed registration formalities, and shortly after carried out the attack.

Medical testimony presented by Dr. Charles Kajoba from Murchison Bay Upper Prison indicated that although the accused has a history of sickle cell disease, he is mentally stable and capable of standing trial.

Additional testimony from Joel Makayi, a property manager in Kyanja, shed light on the suspect’s background. Makayi told court that Okello had rented an apartment in the area and gave inconsistent accounts about his residence, at one point claiming he had lived in the United States before later stating he was based in Ggaba.

The case will proceed to the defence stage as the court seeks to establish the accused’s account of events surrounding one of the most disturbing incidents in the city in recent memory.

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