Forensic evidence has revealed a significant breakthrough in a high-profile murder case at Nakawa Chief Magistrate Court, pointing to Molly Katanga’s involvement in the killing of her husband, businessman Henry Katanga. The evidence, presented on Monday, showcased Molly Katanga’s DNA on the murder weapon, a pistol, forming a crucial element in the trial.
The Scene Of Crime Officer (SOCO) meticulously gathered samples for forensic analysis, highlighting Molly Katanga’s DNA as the most predominant on the trigger of the pistol. This pivotal information was disclosed in the summary of evidence presented by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) during the court proceedings.
Ballistic examination further affirmed the pistol’s functionality, confirming its capability to discharge live rounds of ammunition. The cartridge cases found at the crime scene matched the weapon. The court was informed that both DNA and ballistic reports would be crucial in the forthcoming trial.
DNA, an indispensable genetic material, proved instrumental in establishing Molly Katanga’s connection to the crime. The uniqueness of DNA allows it to serve as a potent investigative tool, linking individuals to crime scenes or excluding them from suspicion.
According to court records, the police traced the firearm’s ownership back to the late Henry Katanga, reinforcing the prosecution’s argument. The indictment alleges that Molly Katanga, on November 2, 2023, intentionally killed her husband during an altercation at their home in Mbuya Chwa 2 Road, Nakawa Division.
Despite Molly Katanga remaining in a city hospital, reportedly nursing serious injuries, the court issued an arrest warrant on Monday, compelling her to enter a plea by February 12. The court revealed that swabs taken from her hands tested positive for gunpowder residues.
The court documents detailed the events leading up to the tragic incident. Henry Katanga, fearful of being tracked, had confided in a relative about his concerns, leading him to plan the creation of a will and the acquisition of a safe for his important documents.
On the fateful evening, the Katangas returned home, retiring to their bedroom. The next day, strange noises prompted the domestic worker to alert the family, eventually leading to the discovery of Henry Katanga’s lifeless body.
Molly Katanga’s daughters, charged with destroying evidence, are currently in Luzira prison. The court heard that they arrived at the scene after the alleged murder, finding their father in a pool of blood.
The police, upon arriving at the crime scene, prevented the removal of the body, initiating inquiries into the circumstances surrounding Henry Katanga’s death. This marks the first public disclosure of the prosecution’s case in court.
Additional individuals implicated in the case include a medic, Charles Otai, charged as an accessory after the fact of murder. The four suspects, including Molly Katanga, will stand trial at the High Court, with the prosecution relying on various exhibits to support its case.
