The High Court in Lira has sentenced a 32-year-old man to 40 years in prison for the murder of Dr. Wilfred Olila, a senior Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist and lecturer.
Paul Mugerwa, a resident of Mbale, was arrested alongside several other suspects in connection with the killing.
He pleaded guilty to charges of murder and aggravated robbery and was, on March 3, 2026, convicted on his own plea of guilt.
Appearing before Lady Justice Sarah Birungi Kalibbala on Monday, April 13, 2026, Mugerwa was sentenced to 40 years for murder and 20 years for aggravated robbery.
In her ruling, Justice Kalibbala underscored the gravity of the offence, stating, “This court must send a clear message that violent crimes resulting in loss of life will attract severe punishment.” She added,
“Although the accused pleaded guilty, the nature of this crime and its impact on the victim’s family and the community demand a deterrent sentence.”
According to police investigations, the killing stemmed from a violent robbery in which the doctor was reportedly lured, abducted, and later killed. East Kyoga Regional Police Commander Damalie Nachuha described the scene as disturbing, noting that “his hands and legs were tied and dried blood covered his face,” adding that “a blood-soaked bandage wrapped around his head indicated severe trauma.”
Authorities confirmed that several suspects were arrested in connection with the case. Lira Resident City Commissioner Lawrence Egole said, “We have suspects in custody, and investigations have been ongoing to ensure all those involved are brought to justice.”
The Uganda Medical Association (UMA) condemned the killing, describing it as a significant loss to the health sector. “This act of brutality against a health worker is unacceptable and must be strongly punished,” the association said in a statement.
UMA President Dr. Herbert Luswata also called for swift justice, saying, “We urge security agencies to ensure that all perpetrators are held accountable.”
Defense lawyers had earlier asked the court for leniency, arguing that Mugerwa was remorseful and had admitted guilt at an early stage.
The court ordered that the sentences will run concurrently, with the time the convict spent on remand to be deducted.
Dr. Olila’s murder sent shockwaves across the Lango sub-region, with colleagues and community members remembering him as a dedicated specialist who served with commitment and professionalism.
