Masaka High Court acquits two accused over 2018 St Bernard SS Manya dormitory fire in Rakai

The High Court in Masaka acquitted Alex Mugarura and Niyo Edison of murder, arson and related charges over the 2018 dormitory fire at St Bernard Secondary School, Manya, in which the prosecution said 10 students died. Justice Victoria Nakintu Katamba ruled that the prosecution relied on suspicion and circumstantial evidence that did not place the accused at the scene. Defence lawyer Sam Ssekyewa criticised the police investigation, saying key exhibits were never presented in court.