Alien Skin’s Bail Delayed: Two More Weeks in Custody

(Kampala) – Renowned singer Patrick Mulwana, popularly known as Alien Skin, will remain in custody for two more weeks after the court extended his remand. The musician appeared before Magistrate Esther Adikini on Monday, November 26, 2024, where he faced three counts of causing grievous harm, charges to which he pleaded not guilty.

The court was informed that Alien Skin, along with unidentified accomplices, allegedly caused grievous harm to Dr. Zaidi Matovu on November 19, 2024, at St. Francis Hospital Nsambya. The charges also include similar offenses against Alex Odong and Anthony Muyanda on the same date. State Prosecutor Harriet Adong revealed that investigations are ongoing, with police searching for 18 other members of Alien Skin’s Fangon Forest group suspected of involvement.

Prosecutor Adong further stated that Odong sustained severe brain damage and remains critically ill. She suggested that if Odong’s condition does not improve, the charges could be escalated. Victims Matovu and Muyanda were present in court during the proceedings.

Alien Skin’s defense team, led by lawyers Precious Nahabwe, Shakirah Nabakooba, Farouk Kirunda, and Paul Kasadha, submitted a bail application citing multiple reasons. The defense argued that the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty, the offenses are bailable, and the accused has provided substantial sureties. Alien Skin’s mother, Juliet Nanyanzi, his brother, and a friend were presented as sureties, alongside co-accused Mugabi’s sister, Maureen Mbabazi, and two friends.

However, the prosecution objected to most of the sureties, arguing they were not eligible and could potentially flee. The state also expressed concerns that Alien Skin’s release could enable his alleged accomplices to evade justice. Prosecutor Adong emphasized the need to keep Alien Skin in custody until Odong’s health condition is clarified, potentially impacting the charges.

In response, the defense argued that Alien Skin, a public figure and Ugandan citizen, posed no threat to the investigation process. They requested a non-cash bail option, should the court decide to grant bail. Magistrate Adikini deferred the bail application for ruling, leaving Alien Skin and his co-accused to await further developments from custody.