Three electrocuted as crusade tent hits power line in Bushenyi
SP Apollo Tayebwa, the greater Bushenyi acting police spokesperson, confirmed that Nathan Mulekwa, 40, survived with injuries, although his current medical condition and whereabouts are still being established.
The bodies were taken to Kampala International University (KIU) Teaching Hospital Mortuary, Ishaka, for examination to establish the exact cause of death. (Credit: Bruno Mugizi)
By Bruno Mugizi
Journalists @New Vision
BUSHENYI - Three people have been electrocuted and one injured after a crusade tent they were shifting touched a high-voltage power line in Bushenyi district on Friday.
The tragedy occurred at Kashenyi Market Place, Kiruhura Village, Ryeishe Parish, Ibaare Sub-county, during a crusade organised by Rock Ministries Church.
The deceased have been identified as:
• Atuhweere Blessed, 23, resident of Mugaga Village, Kayonza Sub-county, Ntungamo district.
• Narutazari Waiswa, 48, from Kinyemi Village, Mutara Sub-county, Mitooma district.
• Rwakisheija William, 43, of Rwenkyenkye Village, Bumbaire Sub-county, Bushenyi District.
SP Apollo Tayebwa, the greater Bushenyi acting police spokesperson, confirmed that Nathan Mulekwa, 40, survived with injuries, although his current medical condition and whereabouts are still being established.
According to preliminary findings, the incident occurred when the metallic tip of the tent, which was being shifted, came into contact with a three-phase high-voltage electricity line.
Authorities also revealed that the organizers of the crusade had not notified police in advance for security and technical guidance.
Tayebwa warned the public against conducting activities under or near electricity lines, especially where high-voltage wires are involved, noting that tents and other metallic structures pose grave risks.
A brief scuffle ensued between police and bereavement families, who initially resisted the removal of the bodies for postmortem examination. However, officers eventually managed the scene in line with police procedures and took away the bodies.
The bodies were taken to Kampala International University (KIU) Teaching Hospital Mortuary, Ishaka, for examination to establish the exact cause of death.
Bushenyi District Police have since launched investigations into the incident and urged the public to cooperate as inquiries continue.
“We strongly urge all event organizers to always notify police in advance to enable us provide the necessary security, technical guidance, and support in order to prevent such tragic incidents,” said Tayebwa.