MASAKA - A 35-year-old man accused of carrying out a string of murders in the Masaka region has been committed to the High Court for trial, marking a significant step in a case that has gripped the community.
Fred Mujulizi, also known as Qaurish Kamugisha, appeared before the Masaka Chief Magistrates Court on Friday via a Zoom link from Luzira Upper Prisons, where he is being held. The Grade 1 Magistrate, Prima Kyomugisha, presided over the proceedings.
Charges Dropped Against Co-Accused
During the session, the court dropped three charges against Mujulizi that were related to aggravated trafficking in persons and ritual sacrifice. In a related development, all charges against his co-accused, Huzairu Kyambadde (28), were also dismissed.
The Director of Public Prosecutions determined that Kyambadde, a resident of Nkoni in Lwengo district, was not linked to the offenses preferred against Mujulizi. Upon his arrest, Mujulizi had implicated Kyambadde, claiming that the man was a traditional healer with an interest in the human body organs of the murdered persons.
Accused Protests Release of Co-Accused
Reacting to the court's decision, Mujulizi expressed his displeasure, insisting that the court had erred in freeing Kyambadde. "I committed these offenses with Kyambadde; it's a mistake to set him free," he told the court.
The court, however, informed Mujulizi that he would have the opportunity to raise the matter before the High Court, where he has now been committed for trial.
The case has drawn widespread attention in the Masaka region, where residents have been anxious for justice following a series of murders that shook local communities. Mujulizi's confession to being behind numerous murder cases has added to the gravity of the proceedings.
Legal analysts note that committal to the High Court signifies that the prosecution believes there is sufficient evidence to warrant a full trial. The High Court will now handle the case, and a date for the trial is expected to be set in due course.
As the legal process moves forward, the community remains watchful, hoping that the High Court will deliver justice for the victims and their families.
