Police probe fatal electrocution of five-year-old in Kibuli

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Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) on Thursday (January 29) said territorial police at Kabalagala Division are investigating a fatal electrocution incident in which a five-year-old girl, identified as Rehema Ayomirwoth, lost her life in Kakunguru Zone, Kibuli, Makindye Division, Kampala.

Luke Owoyesigyire, the deputy public relations officer of KMP, said the incident occurred on January 28, 2026, at about 11:00am.

“It is alleged that the deceased, while playing with other children near a drainage channel, came into contact with a live stay wire supporting an electric pole, resulting in fatal electrocution,” Owoyesigyire said.

He said police officers, together with scene of crime officers, responded promptly to the scene, which was examined and documented.

“The body was later conveyed to Mulago City Mortuary for postmortem examination. Uganda Electricity Distribution Company officials were contacted, and the affected wire was disconnected to prevent further danger,” he added.

Owoyesigyire said no arrests have been made and inquiries into the matter are ongoing.

“Police urge the public to report exposed or faulty electrical installations to the relevant authorities to avert similar incidents,” he stated.

Electrocution incidents remain a recurring and fatal problem in Uganda, often caused by illegal power connections, substandard wiring and negligent construction near high-voltage lines.

In October 2025, a mother and child were killed in Kyankwanzi due to a suspected illegal power connection, while in September 2025, a man was electrocuted in Nateete while attempting an illegal connection.

The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (UEDCL) has repeatedly warned that such practices pose a major risk to public safety.