The Katanga trial resumed on Monday with testimony from the 13th prosecution witness, Dr. Jaffar Kisitu, a forensic chemist with the Uganda Police Forensic Examination Department. Dr. Kisitu delivered significant forensic insights that may impact the ongoing case against Molly Katanga, who stands accused in connection with the death of her husband, Henry Katanga.
During cross-examination by defense lawyer Elison Karuhanga, Dr. Kisitu detailed the results of the gunshot residue (GSR) analysis conducted on samples from Molly Katanga’s hands and clothing.
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He clarified that the presence of diphenylamine (DPA) alone is not conclusive proof of GSR. For confirmation, chemical byproducts of DPA, such as 2-nitro-DPA (2nDPA), must also be detected, indicating firearm discharge.
Karuhanga referenced two swab samples—M2 and M3—taken from Molly’s right hand. One returned a negative result, while the other showed traces of DPA and nitroglycerine but lacked the necessary DPA derivatives.
As a result, Dr. Kisitu acknowledged that these findings could not be conclusively identified as gunshot residue.
To drive the point home, Karuhanga asked Molly to raise her right hand. As she slowly lifted it, the courtroom observed that the upper portion of her pinky finger was missing—a stark physical reminder of the events under scrutiny. The courtroom fell into a hush.
“No GSR on that hand… correct?” Karuhanga asked. Dr. Kisitu confirmed.
This testimony follows earlier forensic revelations that have stirred controversy. Another expert previously testified that Molly Katanga’s DNA was found on the trigger area of the firearm recovered at the scene. However, the defense has challenged this evidence, raising concerns about possible mishandling, the absence of fingerprint identification, and the chance of secondary DNA transfer.
There are also lingering questions about whether the correct weapon was analyzed in the forensic process.
As proceedings continue, the court is expected to weigh the reliability of this forensic evidence. The lack of gunshot residue on Molly Katanga’s dominant hand is shaping up to be a pivotal element in her defense strategy.
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