The number of fatalities from a fuel tanker explosion in Kigogwa along the Kampala-Bombo highway has risen to 26, police officials confirmed.
The tragedy occurred when a fuel tanker involved in an accident exploded, sparking a devastating fire.
Speaking to the press on Monday, Kituuma Rusoke, a police spokesperson, provided an update on the situation.
“Two more victims passed away at Kiruddu Hospital yesterday evening, increasing the total number of fatalities to 26,” Rusoke said.
The death toll initially stood at 24 at the end of the day on Sunday. According to police reports, 20 of the deceased are men and six are women.
Due to the severity of the fire, which left many victims unrecognizable, the government began conducting DNA tests to identify the deceased.
On Sunday, they started returning the bodies to family members. However, only four of the 22 bodies initially identified have been claimed by relatives so far, according to Rusoke.
“Police need DNA tests to assist in identifying the deceased and their family members since the bodies were burned beyond recognition,” he stated.
In response to the tragedy, the government announced financial assistance for the victims’ families. Impacted families will receive Shs5 million for each deceased loved one, while those who are still undergoing treatment will receive Shs1 million.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. Early reports suggest the fire may have started when the tanker caught fire after an accident. The blaze then spread to local businesses, including shops in Kigogwa town, causing additional casualties.
According to initial findings, a nearby charcoal stove could have triggered the explosion, igniting the spilled fuel. The incident is believed to have claimed the lives of several individuals who had gathered at the scene to siphon fuel from the overturned tanker.
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