Besigye Treason Trial: Police Investigator Admits Failure to Visit Foreign Crime Scenes

The high-stakes treason trial of Ugandan opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye took a dramatic turn at the High Court when a key prosecution witness admitted that investigators failed to visit foreign locations central to the state’s case.

Detective Inspector of Police Benedict Odyek, testifying as the third prosecution witness, made the revelation during cross-examination by defence lawyer Farouk Kizito Kamulegeya. Odyek acknowledged before trial judge Emmanuel Baguma that neither he nor his two fellow investigators travelled to Switzerland, Brussels, or Nairobi. Prosecutors allege that meetings aimed at overthrowing the Ugandan government took place in these cities.

While conceding that visiting alleged crime scenes is a crucial component of criminal investigations, Odyek admitted that no such field work was conducted abroad. The testimony has intensified scrutiny regarding the thoroughness of the police inquiry.

Further probing by the defence revealed potential procedural gaps in how the case was initiated. Odyek stated that the investigation stemmed from a directive letter issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on February 12, 2025. The directive instructed police to investigate Besigye, his aide Hajji Obeid Lutale, and Captain Denis Oola over alleged treacherous activities. However, the investigator admitted that the matter had never been formally recorded at any local police station prior to the DPP’s letter, which also lacked specific instructions on which witnesses to interview or evidence to gather.

The defence also raised serious legal questions regarding the extraction of data from electronic gadgets. Odyek admitted that written authorization from key witness Andrew Wilson, also known as Orlando, covered only five specific items—two mobile phones, a power bank, and two concealed cameras. Several other devices, including a hard drive, audio listening devices, and additional concealed cameras, were examined despite lacking proper legal authorization.

Besigye, Lutale, and Captain Oola maintain their innocence. Besigye is currently being tried in absentia without legal representation in these proceedings, while Lutale and Captain Oola regularly attend court. The defence continues to challenge the authenticity and lawful acquisition of the state’s evidence as the trial proceeds. Read more details on the Nile Post.