Police in Katwe have started an inquiry after a couple in Katwe Nkere Zone, Makindye Division, tragically lost their lives after being electrocuted by an illegal electricity connection on the morning of July 10, 2025.

The victims, identified as Ssefuma Charles and Namayube Tina, were involved in a fatal chain reaction when Tina came into contact with a live electric wire that had been illegally connected between two rooftops.

The wire electrocuted her instantly as she hung clothes to dry. When she screamed for help, her husband, Ssefuma, rushed to her aid but was also got electrocuted in the process.

Neighbors quickly responded to the scene, rushing the victims to nearby medical facilities. Ssefuma was taken to Lifeline Clinic, where he was declared dead on arrival, while Namayube was transported to Kiruddu Hospital, where doctors confirmed she had already passed away.

Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, SSP Patrick Onyango, confirmed the tragic incident and said that preliminary investigations point to the illegal electricity connection as the cause of the electrocution.

Police have secured the scene and are working to trace the source of the connection.

“This incident is a stark reminder of the deadly risks posed by unauthorized power connections,” said SSP Onyango. “We urge the public to refrain from such hazardous practices and always hire certified electricians for any electrical work.”

The police have launched an inquiry to identify those responsible for the illegal connection and determine whether criminal charges will be pursued.

Illegal electricity connections remain a widespread hazard in many urban settlements, often resulting in fatalities, fires, and disruptions to essential services.

Authorities are continuing to raise awareness about electrical safety and the risks of tampering with power infrastructure, calling on residents to prioritize safety and legal practices.