KAMPALA, UGANDA | NOWVIBA — A tragic fuel tank fire in Kigoogwa Town along the Kampala-Gulu highway has resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals, with many more sustaining critical injuries.
The incident occurred around 3:00 PM when a fuel tank, registered as UAM 292Q, overturned and ignited while traveling from Kampala to Gulu.
According to Patrick Onyango, spokesperson for the Kampala Metropolitan Police, the victims included nine adults and two children, all of whom were burned beyond recognition. “Sadly, those who rushed to siphon fuel from the tank were among the most severely affected,” Onyango stated.
The fire also destroyed four buildings containing nine shops, resulting in significant property damage estimated in the millions. Many local residents suffered injuries and were quickly transported to various health facilities, including Matugga Town and Kawempe Hospital.
The police have not yet confirmed the identities of the victims or the total number of injured, as many remain hospitalized with serious burns. The remains of those who lost their lives have been moved to the city mortuary in Kampala.
Authorities have managed to contain the fire and have cleared the highway for traffic. Onyango remarked, “This tragic incident highlights the dangers associated with fuel tank accidents and the necessity of exercising caution when handling hazardous materials.”
Reports indicate that the fire erupted shortly after the tank overturned, prompting numerous individuals to attempt to siphon fuel before it ignited.
In a related incident, just this past August, one person died and two others were injured when a fuel tank overturned and caught fire in Rukungiri district.
WATCH VIDEO: Before and after the Fuel tanker exploded
