By Karim Were
The prosecution in the Ggaba toddler murder case is increasingly leaning on digital and forensic evidence to argue that the killings may have been premeditated, as court proceedings reveal a detailed trail of online activity and scientific findings.
Testifying before the court, Kenneth Anguru outlined how data extracted from a mobile phone belonging to Christopher Okello Onyum contained a series of internet searches that investigators believe could suggest prior planning.
Among the queries highlighted were searches related to firearm licensing procedures in Uganda and disturbing violent content. Investigators also pointed to repeated use of mapping services to locate various nursery and daycare centres, raising questions about how these searches may connect to the crime.
The court heard that the list of searched locations was extensive, though Alice Komuhangi Khauka instructed that only a summary be presented to streamline proceedings.
Additional searches retrieved from the device included calculations related to fuel consumption for a Toyota RAV4, as well as inquiries about a car rental service. Prosecutors suggest these could be linked to transport arrangements made shortly before the incident.
Beyond digital evidence, forensic analysis is also playing a key role. Barbanabas Harerimana testified that DNA evidence allegedly matching the suspect was identified on items believed to be connected to the crime, including exhibits recovered from the scene.
While the prosecution is building a case around intent and preparation, the defence continues to challenge these interpretations, particularly questioning whether the digital searches conclusively demonstrate motive or state of mind.
The case stems from the killing of four toddlers in Ggaba on April 2, 2026—a tragedy that has deeply unsettled the public and intensified concerns over safety in early childhood care centres. As hearings continue, the court is now faced with weighing how much digital behaviour can reveal about alleged criminal intent.
