Police in Greater Kampala area are investigating the circumstances under which a family of six perished in an inferno that left a family house in flames at Bukasa, Kirinya in Bweyogerere, Wakiso District in the wee hours of Thursday morning.
It is alleged that at around 3am, a loud blast was heard by neighbours from the residence of a 45-year-old boda boda cyclist identified as Fred Ssekibira.
When neighbours rushed to the scene the blaze had already engulfed the house, making rescue efforts extremely difficult, according to police.
“Police were alerted, and the Fire Prevention and Rescue Services team responded swiftly, successfully containing the fire and preventing it from spreading to adjacent properties.
Upon arrival, a team of investigators was introduced to the scene. During their inspection, they sadly discovered six bodies in the debris,” said Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson, ASP Luke Owoyesigyire
He identified the deceased as Ssekabira, his wife Winfred Gonja and their four children; Peace Nakakira, 16; Gloria Nabuya, 20, Helena Nakamya, 9 and Brian Nebula, 7.
“The bodies have been conveyed to City Mortuary Mulago for postmortem examination,” he disclosed
While the exact cause of the inferno is yet to be established, preliminary investigations, including statements from Ssekibira’s friends, suggest that he (Ssekibira) has been showing signs of suicidal behaviour.
Bukasa Village chairperson , Mr Twaha Kitanda, explained that six months ago, they received complaints from Ssekabir, asking the village authorities to separate him and Ms Gonja whom he accused of infidelity.
“We convened a meeting and talked the couple but their relationship continued to become a matter of concern . After some time, Mr Ssekabira threatened to do something worse claiming that we had not helped him,” Mr Kitanda said.
They reported the threats to Kirinya Police, because the case was beyond their capacity.
“However, this line of inquiry remains under investigation and is yet to be confirmed.
We wish to express our sincere condolences to the affected family and community. We remain committed to uncovering the full circumstances surrounding this incident. Further details will be shared as soon as they become available,” Mr Owoyesigyire said.