Uganda, April 22 -- Proceedings in the murder trial of Christopher Okello Onyum were on Wednesday abruptly halted after a powerful thunderstorm tore through the makeshift court at Ggaba, sending tents flying and triggering panic among court attendees.

The afternoon session, which had just resumed to hear the final prosecution witness, was cut short when what began as a light drizzle quickly intensified into a violent storm. Strong winds ripped apart the main tent where presiding judge Alice Komuhangi Khaukha was seated, forcing an emergency evacuation.

The situation turned chaotic as the tent structure began to give way, prompting people to flee for safety. The adjacent tent designated for members of the public also shook violently, wit...