crime 21 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
US Authorities Confirm No Criminal Record for Toddler Murder Suspect Okello
Testimony in the Ggaba toddler murder trial revealed that the US embassy found no criminal history for suspect Christopher Okello Onyuk, who once lived in America. Police also verified his genuine passports but noted his driving permit had expired. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/america-clears-okello-of-prior-criminal-record-5430926
In ongoing High Court proceedings at Ggaba Community Church, Detective Assistant Superintendent of Police Eserait James testified that US authorities cleared Christopher Okello Onyuk of any prior criminal offenses.
Eserait, leading the investigation into the fatal stabbing of four toddlers at Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre, explained that his team contacted the US embassy via the deputy CID director. The response confirmed no known offenses on record for Okello, who had resided in the United States previously.
The witness, on his second day in court, also confirmed the authenticity of two American passports seized from Okello’s Kyanja residence. Police verified these directly with US officials.
Investigators checked Okello’s driving credentials after learning he drove from Kyanja to Ggaba before the incident. The Ministry of Works and Transport reported he held only an expired learner’s permit.
Bank accounts were reviewed to assess his finances, and the US report to Uganda’s Inspector General of Police noted no awareness of mental health issues.
Okello faces four murder counts, which he denies. Justice Alice Komuhangi Khaukha oversees the community-based trial, attracting significant local interest.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)