Dr Olila, a respected otolaryngologist who also worked at Lira Regional Referral Hospital, was widely regarded within Uganda’s medical fraternity.
A 32-year-old man accused of brutally killing senior ear, nose and throat specialist Dr. Wilfred Olila has pleaded guilty before the High Court.
Paul Mugerwa admitted to the charges on February 24, 2026, when he appeared before Lady Justice Sarah Birungi Kalibbala. Court proceedings were adjourned to March 4, 2026, for sentencing.
According to investigators, Mugerwa fled to Gomba District shortly after the murder but was later traced and arrested.
The prosecution told court that Dr Olila, a lecturer at Soroti University, was lured from Moroto Clinic in Lira City, kidnapped near Lira Hotel in the Senior Quarters area, robbed of cash and his mobile phone, and later strangled.
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His body was discovered on January 17, 2025, along the Otuboi–Abalanga Road in Ogolai Village, Kalaki District. A post-mortem examination confirmed that he died of strangulation.
Police initially rounded up 11 suspects in connection with the crime, but seven were released due to insufficient evidence. Several others were charged with murder and remanded. However, upon committal to the High Court, some of the accused were freed, leaving Mugerwa and three others to stand trial on charges of murder and aggravated robbery.
Dr Olila, a respected otolaryngologist who also worked at Lira Regional Referral Hospital, was widely regarded within Uganda’s medical fraternity. His killing triggered public outrage, with the Uganda Medical Association condemning the attack and calling for swift justice.
