Buganda Road Court Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi has convicted and sentenced Taban Mawa to 25 years imprisonment for attempting to murder Ivan Oyirwoth following an acid attack.
“The justice system’s dedication to holding violent offenders accountable and safeguarding the community’s well-being is exemplified in this case,” he said.
Court documents indicate that on March 26, 2024, Mawa forcibly took the victim, Oyirwoth, from his residence in Mulimira Zone, Kamwokya, to a property in Kanisa Zone in Kawempe, Kampala district.
However, at about 3:00am, an altercation erupted between Mawa and Oyirwoth, during which Mawa accused the victim of stealing a flat-screen television belonging to his employer.
The situation escalated into a violent assault, with Mawa subjecting Oyirwoth to physical abuse, including beating him with a bicycle chain lock and a panga, as well as pouring a corrosive acid mixture on him.
Police were alerted to the violent incident and swiftly responded, discovering Oyirwoth in critical condition. Remarkably, the victim was able to recount the ordeal in detail. Following Mawa’s arrest, he confessed to the crime during questioning.
However, the case against Mawa unfolded after his initial plea of not guilty was entered when he first appeared before the court.
On September 18, 2024, during the testimony of the fourth witness, Mawa requested to change his plea as the prosecution presented evidence. He then pleaded guilty to attempted murder and was promptly convicted based on his plea.
Mawa was subsequently sentenced to 25 years’ imprisonment. In the sentencing hearing, the prosecution led by Ivan Kyazze, stated that the offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
He also stated that the attack was premeditated and carried out with deliberate cruelty.
Kyazze told the court that Mawa’s conduct demonstrated a flagrant disregard for human life and decency and given the severity of the crime and Mawa’s character, his removal from society was necessary to protect the public
