Police probe deadly blaze that killed family of six in Kirinya

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Police on Thursday, May 29, 2025, confirmed that six people were killed in a tragic early morning fire in Bukasa, Kirinya, Bweyogerere, Wakiso district. The blaze claimed the lives of the entire family of 45-year-old Fred Ssekabila.

Luke Owoyesigyire, deputy public relations officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, said that while the exact cause of the fire had not yet been established, preliminary investigations, including statements from Ssekabila’s friends, are being reviewed as part of ongoing inquiries.

“The Police at Kira Division are currently investigating a tragic fire outbreak that occurred in the early hours of Thursday, May 29 2025, at Bukasa, Kirinya, in Bweyogerere, Wakiso district. It is alleged that at approximately 3:00 am, a loud blast was heard from the residence of one Ssekabila,” he said.

Owoyesigyire explained that concerned neighbours rushed to offer assistance; however, the fire had already engulfed the house, making rescue efforts extremely difficult.

“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,” he added.

He noted that during their inspection, investigators sadly discovered six bodies in the debris.

“The deceased have been identified as: Winniefred Gonja, Gloria Nabuya, 20, Peace Nakakira, 16, Brian Nebula Briyan, 7, Helena Nakamya, 9, and Ssekabila. The bodies have been conveyed to City Mortuary Mulago for post-mortem examination.”

Owoyesigyire said, “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.”

The incident comes barely two days after another fire outbreak occurred at a row of kiosks along Ntinda-Kiwatule Road in Kinawataka, Bukoto II Parish, Nakawa Division, Kampala District. The fire was promptly reported to Ntinda Police Station.

Several individuals, including small business owners, were affected. The victims included operators of coffee shops, eateries, and interior design businesses. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported.

Police said the cause of that fire also remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing.