Kampala, Uganda – The Criminal Division of the High Court, presided over by Justice Michael Elubu, continues to hear the case of Francis Onebe, a 63-year-old accountant, who stands accused of the abduction and murder of his wife, Immaculate Mary Blessing Aiso. The alleged incident took place on January 6, 2021, sending shockwaves through the community.
According to statements presented in court, Aiso’s life tragically ended when she was reportedly abducted just steps away from her Munyonyo home. Witnesses claim that Aiso was bungled into a vehicle resembling a drone, which then transported her to an unfinished building in the Bukasa suburb. There, she was allegedly held captive for over a week before the tragic end to her life.
Details emerging from the trial have revealed that Aiso was found undressed, her body left in just a knicker, with signs indicating that she had been strangled to death. A statement provided by witness Gerald Abaasi, recorded by investigating officer Jacob Okello, suggests that Aiso’s lifeless body was subsequently driven back to her residence, where the gate was opened by an individual identified as Okale.
Onebe’s defense maintains that his wife was taken by plainclothes operatives traveling in what he described as a “drone,” which sparked an initial missing person’s report. However, a joint security team, led by CID operatives, discovered her remains a week later, concealed in a septic tank on the couple’s property. This discovery marked a grim turn of events and led to Onebe’s arrest and subsequent remand at Luzira Prison, along with his security guard Bonny Oriekot, who has also been implicated in the case.
The courtroom has heard that Onebe and Aiso had a history marked by separation and reconciliation over the course of 14 years before their formal marriage. Police investigations have revealed that their relationship was marred by disputes, including a reported conflict over sorcery.
The trial continues to unfold, with the case adjourned to October 2, 2023, for further cross-examination. If convicted of the murder charge, Onebe could face the maximum penalty of death.
