Fresh court revelations have shed new light on the chilling circumstances surrounding the killing of four toddlers at a daycare centre in Kampala, with prosecutors alleging that the prime suspect, Christopher Okello Onyumu, had mapped out several potential targets before the attack.
According to testimony presented in court on Wednesday, Okello is said to have conducted extensive online searches on nursery and preschool facilities across Kampala and Wakiso districts in the days leading up to the incident.
Investigators told the court that at least six different learning institutions were identified in his search history, raising fears that the attack may have been premeditated and part of a broader plan.
Among the locations reportedly searched were Kyanja Junior School, Matugga Preschool, Lam Kindergarten and Daycare Centre in Matugga, Mom’s Love Kindergarten along Semuto Road, Edibet ECD Kit in Matugga, and Golden Infant Kindergarten. Authorities believe these searches point to a deliberate effort to identify vulnerable targets.
Further testimony indicated that Okello also looked up security-related locations, including Bunga Police Station, as well as Church Close in Ggaba.
Investigators suggested this could have been part of efforts to understand response times or security presence in targeted areas.
In a disturbing twist, the court also heard that the suspect allegedly searched for extremist content online, including material related to ISIS and methods of carrying out violent acts.
Additionally, he reportedly sought information on how to acquire a firearm in Uganda, further deepening concerns about the scale and intent of his plans.
Prosecutors presented forensic evidence linking Okello to the crime, including DNA reportedly recovered from a knife believed to have been used in the killings.
The prosecution argues that the combination of digital evidence and forensic findings places the suspect at the centre of the attack.
The case has sparked widespread concern among parents and education stakeholders in Kampala, with many calling for enhanced security measures in early childhood learning institutions.
Lawmakers have also begun demanding answers from security agencies on how such a tragedy could occur despite apparent warning signs.
The trial is ongoing, with the court expected to hear more witness testimonies as the prosecution builds its case against the suspect.