Archival Sense
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- Dec 16, 2025
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(Photo courtesy of NewVision)
A police officer who was four months away from retirement after 34 years of service has been convicted of manslaughter by the High Court in Lira.
Patrick James Onen was found guilty of using excessive force during a July 2023 incident at Agege Trading Centre that left one person dead and another injured.
Court heard that Onen responded to a fight over Shs2,000. Although the fight had ended by the time he arrived, he faced resistance from members of the public while attempting to arrest a suspect.
The crowd reportedly became hostile, surrounded him and threw stones. Onen fired 16 rounds from his rifle to disperse them, killing James Ogwal and injuring Augustine Ojuka.
Justice Sarah Birungi Kalibbala ruled that while Onen acted in self-defence, he used more force than was necessary. The court acquitted him of murder and attempted murder but convicted him of manslaughter and causing grievous harm.
During mitigation, Onen’s lawyers asked for leniency, saying he is a first offender, aged 63, and supports nine children. They also said a prison sentence could affect his retirement benefits.
The prosecution asked for a tougher sentence, arguing that a police officer has a duty to protect lives and should not use excessive force.
The High Court is expected to sentence him on August 6.