11 People Perished in a fuel tanker explosion
- The fuel tanker, with registration number UAM 292Q, was traveling from Kampala to Gulu
- The fire also resulted in the destruction of four buildings
Image: COURTESY PHOTO
11 people die in a fuel tanker explosion last evening in Kigogwa town, along Kampala –Gulu Highway. According to police the deceased including two minors and 9 adults.
The fuel tanker explosion ignited in Kigogwa town, situated along the Kampala-Bombo road in Wakiso district.
According to reports, the fuel tanker, overturned, prompting nearby residents to gather and attempt to scoop or siphon fuel into jerrycans just moments before the tanker erupted in flames.
Patrick Onyango, the spokesperson for the Kampala Metropolitan area, confirmed that 11 individuals, were burned at the scene to the extent that they were unrecognizable.
He said that “The fuel tanker, with registration number UAM 292Q, was traveling from Kampala to Gulu when the accident occurred. Unfortunately, people who rushed to siphon fuel from the tanker were the most affected.’’
He added that the fire also resulted in the destruction of four buildings that contained nine shops, leading to the loss of properties valued in the millions of shillings due to spilled fuel.
Those injured were promptly transported to nearby medical facilities for care.
Onyango stated that the police are undertaking an investigation to ascertain the number of injured individuals receiving treatment at the various facilities.
The identities of the affected individuals have yet to be determined.
He emphasized that this unfortunate event highlights the dangers associated with fuel tanker incidents and underscores the necessity of exercising caution when handling hazardous substances.