Haruna Towers was badly demented following a fire outbreak in the early hours of today
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I A fresh fire outbreak in Kampala has renewed fears over a growing trend of suspected arson incidents, after flames gutted parts of Haruna Towers in Kubbiri along Bombo Road on Thursday morning.
The blaze, which broke out on the upper floors of the six-storey building, left traders counting heavy losses as shops were destroyed and property reduced to ashes. The most affected section was the top floor housing the Global Institute of Information Technology (GI-IT), owned by Ben Opolot, the former Managing Editor of New Vision.
Eyewitnesses said thick smoke was seen billowing from the building, located opposite the synagogue of Pastor Samuel Kakande, triggering panic in the usually busy trading hub. Some individuals reportedly took advantage of the chaos, breaking into nearby rooms and stealing merchandise under the guise of rescuing goods.
Cesar Tusingwire, the Wandegeya Police Commander however pointed out that the cause of the fire is still unknown pending investigations, adding that investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing. “We are yet to find the real cause of the fire but as police, although we suspect foul play. We however played our part and saved the entire building from being razed down,” he said.
He warned that the city is experiencing a worrying spike in fire incidents. “This is a very bad season with lots of fire outbreaks… Police has so far recorded three incidences in less than a month,” he added.
Traders also raised concerns about safety standards, citing non-functional fire extinguishers. Authorities have urged building owners to heighten vigilance as emergency teams continue to monitor the situation.
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