Renowned Ugandan artist Patrick Mulwana, popularly known as Alien Skin, appeared before the Makindye Court today to face three additional charges of causing bodily harm, adding to a prior theft case against him.
Magistrate Esther Adikini presided over the session, where the new charges were linked to an incident at Nsambya Hospital last week. During the confrontation, Alien Skin and his associates allegedly injured three hospital staff members: Dr. Saed Matovu, Alex Odong, and Anthony Muyanda.
The altercation reportedly arose after Alien Skin and his entourage were denied access to documents related to their late friend, Joram Tumwesigye, who had died in a motorcycle accident. Both Alien Skin and his bodyguard, Julius Mugabi, pleaded not guilty.
Despite heavy rains, a large crowd of the artist’s supporters gathered outside the court in a show of solidarity. Security forces cleared the premises, limiting access to journalists and individuals directly involved in the case.
Inside the courtroom, Alien Skin’s defense team, led by Precious Nahabwe, sought bail, presenting his mother, Juliet Nanyanzi, his younger brother, Nsubuga, and Ssanyuka TV journalist Alia as sureties. The defense argued that the accused needed time to fulfill family responsibilities and mourn their late friend, expressing readiness to negotiate with the complainants.
However, the state prosecutor opposed the bail request, citing concerns about Alien Skin’s influence and the potential for interference with investigations. Magistrate Adikini deferred her decision on the bail application to Thursday, November 28, 2024.
Meanwhile, the court addressed the theft case against Alien Skin, with his lawyers revealing a settlement agreement with complainant Salim Mubiru. The magistrate postponed the matter to December 9 to allow formal documentation of the agreement. Mubiru’s absence in court also contributed to the delay.
Following the session, Alien Skin and his co-accused were escorted by police under heavy security. Rumors of his alleged abduction circulated among his supporters but were refuted by his legal team, who remained hopeful about the upcoming bail decision.
For now, Alien Skin remains in custody as his legal battles unfold, drawing significant public attention to the high-profile case.