Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-04-13 08:03:33
The International Crimes Division of the High Court in Kampala has handed down a sentence of eight years in jail to four individuals who were found guilty of plotting to assassinate former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Gen Edward Kale Kayihura and Namayingo District Police Commander (DPC) Maj Francis Okumu.
The four individuals, Okuku Sadam Umalu, Osinya Colline, Joseph Ojambo, and Lwanga Abudala, were sentenced by Justice Andrew Bashaija after being convicted of theft and two counts of conspiracy to commit murder. The sentencing came as a result of a plea bargain agreement with Chief State Attorney Joseph Kyomuhendo.
The court heard that in May and June of 2016, the accused stole two AK-47 rifles along with 60 rounds of live ammunition from Nakudi Police Post in Namayingo District, located in eastern Uganda. A gunshot was heard at a resident’s home in Sirowa Village in Namayingo, prompting a police operation that led to the arrest of Okuku and his associates.
During the interrogation, the accused admitted to stealing the firearms with the intention of using them to rob and eliminate individuals who were perceived as hindrances to the Tabliq sect, a group they belonged to. This included plans to target Gen Kale Kayihura, DPC Maj Okumu, and the Resident District Commissioner (RDC).
Additionally, the accused confessed to previously stealing a gun from a policeman in 2015 and using it in various robbery attempts in eastern Uganda, some of which were successful.
Under the plea bargain agreement, the judge sentenced each convict to eight years for each count, to be served concurrently. This decision marked the culmination of a criminal case that exposed a dangerous plot to commit violence against high-ranking officials and disrupt public safety.
The sentencing of these individuals serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability for criminal actions. It also demonstrates the commitment of the judicial system to protect public officials and maintain overall societal security.
In conclusion, the case highlights the serious consequences of engaging in criminal activities such as conspiracy to commit murder and theft. The actions of the four convicts not only put the lives of key individuals at risk but also threatened the safety and well-being of the community as a whole. The verdict serves as a warning to others who may contemplate similar illegal activities, reinforcing the message that such behavior will not be tolerated and will be met with severe consequences.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
