KAMPALA- A devastating fuel tanker explosion occurred on Tuesday afternoon in Kigogwa Town along the Kampala-Bombo road, killing at least 11 people and injuring several others.
The tragedy unfolded when a fuel tanker, registration number UAM 292Q, traveling from Kampala to Gulu, overturned after the driver lost control.
Locals rushed to siphon fuel from the tanker, unaware of the impending danger. Unfortunately, those who attempted to siphon fuel were the most affected, with nine adults and two minors dying at the scene, their bodies burnt beyond recognition.
The blaze also destroyed four buildings housing nine shops and other properties worth millions of shillings. Authorities swiftly transported the injured to nearby health facilities for treatment.
But the Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson has said that the tragic incident claimed 11 people, including 9 adults and 2 minors. The victims were burnt beyond recognition.
The fuel tanker, with registration number UAM 292Q, was traveling from Kampala to Gulu when the accident occurred.
Four buildings housing nine shops were destroyed in the blaze. Properties worth millions of shillings were also destroyed.
“The injured were rushed to nearby health facilities for treatment.- Police are conducting a fact-finding mission to confirm the number of injured persons from the health facilities. The identities of those affected have not.” Onyango said.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with fuel tanker accidents and the importance of exercising caution when dealing with hazardous materials. Sadly, this is not an isolated incident, as a similar fuel siphoning incident in Nigeria just last week claimed the lives of over 150 people.
