By Kenneth Wamatoyi
KAMPALA
The territorial police in Wandegeya area are investigating a fire that broke out around 4 a.m. today 19th dec 2024 morning in Mukwenda Zone, Makerere One, Wandegeya.
The fire occurred at a facility that serves as a garage, parking area, timber shop, and a hub for various activities. Several items were destroyed in the blaze, including a sawmill, hair mattresses, and 14 cars.
Of these, 13 cars were completely burned to ashes, while one government vehicle was severely damaged. The government car was reportedly under repair at the time of the fire, though its number plate was not identifiable after the incident.
According to Patrick Onyango, the spokesperson for the Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP), the authorities were quickly alerted and responded to the scene. However, the presence of fuel in the cars caused the fire to spread rapidly.
There are allegations that the fire may have been an act of arson. It is said that, the previous day, there had been a disagreement among a group of individuals over the savings and Sacco money that they wanted to share but it was less, some of whom left unsatisfied.
This group had issued threats, with some members planning to report the matter to authorities. However, others were left unsettled, which may have led to suspicions about the cause of the fire.
Senga Nakakawa, who was allegedly targeted by the group, is currently in police custody. It is claimed that some members of the group believe she may have been responsible for starting the fire.
She was rescued by police from a mob that was attempting to lynch her. Nakakawa is now being held at Wandegeya Police Station, where she is assisting with the ongoing investigation to help identify those responsible for the incident.
The police investigation into the fire is still ongoing, and authorities are working to gather more information to understand the cause of the blaze and the motivations behind the alleged threats.
At least 14 cars have been burnt in a Kampala blaze linked to a protest by members of a local Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization, whose members sought to share annual profits exceeding Shs15m.
