Hearing of Susan Magara Murder Case Resumes

The long-awaited hearing in the high-profile Susan Magara murder case resumed today at the High Court in Kampala, presided over by Justice Alex Ajiiji.

The case, which has drawn national attention, involves the brutal kidnapping and murder of 28-year-old Susan Magara in February 2018.Key evidence was presented today by Police Inspector Robert Icoot, who testified before the court and submitted detailed reports and photographs from various crime scenes.

These include a house in Nkonge, where one of the prime suspects, Yusuf Lubega, was staying, and a piece of land in Luwero allegedly purchased using part of the 700 million Ugandan shillings ransom obtained from Magara's family before she was killed.

Inspector Icoot recounted a critical search conducted on May 8, 2018, at a house in Upper Konge2, Makindye. During this operation, a number of exhibits were recovered, including a reddish-stained envelope bearing the names "Bushira" and "Muzamir."

Other key items recovered included a Royal foam mattress, a syringe, four mobile phones, two saws, and several documents.

These items were later handed over to investigators for further analysis.

According to Icoot, the house in Konge2 was suspected to be where Magara had been detained and possibly killed before her body was moved to Wakiso, where it was discovered.

The search was conducted following leads from Detective Sergeant Nusra, who believed the house played a pivotal role in the crime.

During the proceedings, Justice Ajiiji dismissed claims by the defense that the accused were attempting to delay the trial by claiming to be unwell in Luzira Prison.

While the state sought to have a medical examination conducted, the judge ruled that unless the illness was serious enough to disrupt the trial, the proceedings would continue.

He did, however, allow for medical attention to be provided to the accused, ensuring their health is not neglected during the trial.

Justice Ajiiji emphasized the importance of a speedy trial for all parties involved, stating, "A speedy trial is good for us all, including the accused persons, and your trial must take place."

The group of accused, including an Imam from Usafi Mosque, Mahad Kasalita, and several others, are charged with two capital offenses: kidnapping and murder.

 The prosecution alleges that on February 7, 2018, the group abducted Magara with the intent of extorting a ransom from her family.

Despite receiving 700 million Ugandan shillings (approximately $200,000), the kidnappers went ahead and murdered her on February 27, 2018, in Kigo, Wakiso District.

Chilling details of the crime have emerged throughout the trial. The suspects are alleged to have severed two of Magara's fingers and sent them to her family along with threats, demanding the ransom for her release.

Despite the payment, the suspects reportedly suffocated her with a polythene bag, fearing she would be able to identify them after being held captive for nearly three weeks.

The trial, which has been marked by delays and legal battles, is set to continue on Thursday  with Justice Ajiiji ordering that the accused be examined by doctors to ensure their well-being as the proceedings move forward.