A 24-year-old civilian, James Echodu, has been sentenced to four years and three months in prison for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, offenses contrary to Section 4(1)(2)(a) of the Firearms Act, Cap 320.
The General Court Martial at Makindye first charged Echodu on December 3, 2024, who later reappeared in court on December 18, 2024, where he pleaded guilty to both charges. On January 6, 2025, he formally recorded his plea of guilty after he confirmed the accuracy of the case facts presented.
Lt. Gift Mubehamwe, representing the prosecution, noted that there was no prior criminal record against the convict but highlighted the gravity of the offense.
“The illegal possession of firearms is rampant and continues to cause insecurity in the country,” Mubehamwe stated, calling on the court to impose a deterrent sentence.
On the defense hand, counsel Lt. Daniel Kagombe appealed for leniency, emphasising Echodu’s cooperation with the court and his remorsefulness.
Counsel Kagombe further pointed out that Echodu is a first-time offender and also the sole breadwinner for his wife, two children, and dependents.
He also provided that the convict had already spent nine months in custody, though prosecution initially indicated five months.
In delivering the sentence, Brig. Gen. Freeman Mugabe, the presiding chairman of the General Court Martial, acknowledged the appealing factors presented by the defence, including Echodu’s age, family responsibilities, and time spent on remand.
However, he underscored the seriousness of the offense, noting its threat to public safety.
“The maximum sentence for each offense is ten years. Considering the mitigating factors and the time already spent in lawful custody, this court finds a sentence of four years and three months appropriate,” ruled Brig. Gen. Mugabe.
The sentence will run concurrently, meaning Echodu will serve a total of four years and three months. The court informed him of his right to appeal the decision within 14 days
