Old septic tank caves in and kills one worker in Kawempe
Police said 28-year-old Abubakar Mukwaya, a plumber, was buried under the debris and died at the scene at West Mall building in Komamboga Central Zone, Kawempe division.
Owoyesigyire said Police responded promptly, visited and documented the scene.
KAMPALA - A man has been killed in Kampala city after an old septic tank caved in, with two of his colleagues managing to escape being buried alive.
Police said 28-year-old Abubakar Mukwaya, a plumber, was buried under the debris and died at the scene at West Mall building in Komamboga Central Zone, Kawempe division.
The tragic incident happened at around 1pm on Tuesday (January 6).
The territorial Police in Kira are now investigating the incident as one of a rash and negligent act causing death.
It is understood excavation works were ongoing to build a new septic tank near an existing one following a sewage blockage.
“During the process, the old septic tank collapsed and caved in on the workers. Two casual workers managed to escape, though one sustained a fractured arm and was rushed to a nearby clinic for treatment," said Luke Owoyesigyire, the Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson.
"Sadly, one worker, identified as Abubakar Mukwaya, a 28-year-old plumber, was buried under the debris and died at the scene."
Owoyesigyire said Police responded promptly, visited and documented the scene.
A team from the fire prevention and rescue services used an excavator to retrieve Mukwaya's body, which was later taken to Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) mortuary for a postmortem examination.
“A case of rash and negligent act causing death has been registered, and investigations are ongoing to establish responsibility," added the police spokesperson.
In the wake of the incident, Police cautioned building owners, contractors, site supervisors, and workers to strictly observe safety procedures, conduct proper site assessments, and engage qualified personnel during construction and excavation works to prevent loss of life.
According to the Uganda Penal Code Act, a "rash and negligent act" refers to causing harm or death through actions done without sensible thought (rash) or carelessness (negligent), and is provided for under Section 227 (and related sections) of the same act.
The offence covers endangering life or causing injury/death by such acts, with penalties varying by severity, including imprisonment, fines, or both, as seen in cases involving medical errors or driving incidents.