The Uganda police force in Kampala Metropolitan South is actively investigating two separate fire outbreaks that occurred on Tuesday morning, September 17, 2024, at different locations within the region.
According to the Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson, ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the first incident was reported around midnight at Kakungulu Memorial School in Kibuli, Makindye division, where the fire broke out in the dormitories housing over 50 students.
“Fortunately, no fatalities were recorded; however, there is a student who registered some minor injuries and also inhalation of the smoke but received medical attention,” Owoyesigyire said.
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He added that the police fire prevention and rescue service teams quickly responded, preventing the further escalation of the fire.
In another incident, Owoyesigyire noted that the police at Entebbe are also investigating a fire outbreak that occurred at the Entebbe municipality headquarters in the wee hours of Tuesday, September 17, 2024.
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The fire occurred in a metallic kiosk, causing significant property loss, including cooking equipment and food supplies.
“It is alleged that around 3 a.m., a metallic kiosk belonging to Ms. Rose, which is used as a kitchen, caught fire. The fire was contained before it could spread to the nearby structures,” Owoyesigyire noted.
At the time of reporting, the police investigations were still ongoing to ascertain the exact cause of both fires, and further details will be communicated as soon as they become available.
According to police reports, 35% of school fires occurred between May 2022 and May 2023, majorly in dormitories during nighttime, primarily due to negligence, electrical faults, and deliberate arson. These unfortunate incidents call for action a coordinated response to curb the continuous fire outbreaks in schools and public places, in Uganda.
