Baguma remanded to prison of his choice

What you need to know:

Mr Baguma and the remaining co-accused, who have not yet been committed to the High Court to face trial, are expected back in court on Thursday for mention of their case

Former Kampala Central police station commander, Aaron Baguma pleaded with court to be remanded to Kigo prison where he claims he will be safer.

Baguma, through his lawyer, Abraham Ampwire asked court to guarantee his safety by remanding him to Kigo instead of Luzira prison where his colleagues are being kept.

Mr Ampirwe argued that, since it is his client who arrested all the seven suspects with whom he is co-accused, it would not be safe to remand him to the same facility with them, as it would be putting his life in jeopardy.

However, prosecution did not object, thus Grade One Magistrate, Joan Acio granted his prayer.

Baguma, on Tuesday voluntarily and secretly surrendered himself to Buganda Road Court where he was formally charged in connection with the murder of businesswoman Donah Betty Katusabe before being sent on remand.

The court had on August 18, issued a warrant of arrest for the elusive senior officer after he dodged court that day. Court had given Mr Baguma up to tomorrow to be arrested by any member of the public and the police by tomorrow and bring him to court.

Dressed in civilian clothes, Baguma appeared before Grade One Magistrate Joan Acio at around 2pm.

Since murder charge is capital in nature, Mr Baguma was not allowed to plead to the same charge that is only tried by the High Court. Court only just read for him the charges before remanding him.

Mr Baguma and the remaining co-accused, who have not yet been committed to the High Court to face trial, are expected back in court on Thursday for mention of their case.