Prosy Awusi, a suspect earlier released by the court has been re-arrested and remanded to Nakifuma prison.
Awusi, a resident of Kateete village in Kasawo town council in the Nakifuma-Mukono district is accused of viciously attacking with acid a co-wife, Sylvia Achola together with her twelve-year daughter.
The incident left Achola, a four-month pregnant woman in severe pain as well as the community in shock.
Later the incident sparked widespread outrage, particularly after the Nakifuma court presided over by the Grade I Magistrate Peter Bukina granted bail to Awusi, the primary suspect.
When the concerned residents inquired about Awusi’s whereabouts, they were told she had been remanded to either Nakifuma or Kauga prison in Mukono and advised to return to court on August 26 for her next appearance.
To the community’s surprise, just three days later, Awusi was seen back in the community.
Residents learned that Awusi was charged with grievous harm against the two victims.
Despite the severity of the charges, Awusi denied the claims and was granted bail of UGX 1 million.
Since the victims, who were hospitalized, could not attend court, and the concerned residents were denied critical information, the State Attorney did not object to the bail.
Several residents were left in shock at how the case was downgraded from attempted murder to grievous harm and also questioned the rapid granting of bail to Awusi.
Due to public pressure, the Regional State Attorney summoned the case file for review and further scrutiny.
However, during the scheduled second court appearance, the magistrate, Peter Bukina noted that the file had not been returned.
Bukina however instructed for the re-arrest of Awusi and remand her to Nakifuma prison for safe custody until the file perusal is concluded.
He also warned residents following up on the matter against running to the media and reporting every step they don’t understand.
The victims are still admitted to Mulago National Referral Hospital. Achola is suffering from severe burns on her stomach, hand, and thighs, while her daughter, who cannot speak, has extensive burns on her back, head, face, and limbs.
The young girl is being fed through tubes and is struggling with other health complications.