crime 5 April 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Ggaba Toddler Killer Suspect Had Mental Health Issues and Witchcraft Beliefs, Family Reveals
Christopher Okello Onyun, accused of slaying four toddlers at a Kampala nursery school, has a documented history of mental illness treated in the US, his family told police. Locals also link him to witchcraft rituals and a past family tragedy. Source: https://observer.ug/news/suspect-in-ggaba-toddler-killings-has-history-of-mental-illness-family
Christopher Okello Onyun faces charges for the brutal murder of four young children at Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre in Kampala. He allegedly posed as a parent enrolling a child before attacking toddlers on playground equipment last Thursday.
Police and soldiers saved him from a furious mob. Now held at Kabalagala Police Division, new details from his family paint a picture of long-standing mental struggles.
His father, from Bunga, informed investigators they had sent Onyun to the United States for treatment. He returned secretly in November last year without their knowledge, according to Ggaba LCIII councillor Arnold Kasujja.
Taxi operators who knew him reported Onyun consulted a traditional healer, who supposedly claimed ritual sacrifices were key to riches. Unconfirmed reports tie him to his stepbrother’s 2017 death, which spurred the overseas treatment.
State Minister for Higher Education John Chrysestom Muyingo visited the site Friday, shutting down the school and related facilities amid probes. The ministry vows aid for grieving families and hurt staff as motive hunts continue.