Mubende, Uganda – The territorial police in Mubende District are actively investigating a tragic incident of rush and neglect that resulted in the death of six individuals on June 6, 2024.

The fatal electrocution occurred around 9:00 AM at Butawata Market in Butawata “E” Village, Kigando Parish, Kigando Sub-county.

According to the Police, the deceased were identified as:

Asaba Godwin, a 40-year-old male resident of Kigando Village, Kigando Parish, Kigando Subcounty.

Byamukama Boaz, 51, from Namugongo Village, Kigando Parish, Kigando Sub-county.

Ayebazibwe Jordan, 22, a businessman from Butawata “W” Village, Kigando Parish, Kigando Sub-county.

Walusimbi George, 19, from Rwensha Village, Kigando Parish, Kigando Sub-county.

Kakuru Ambrose, 30, from Lusanga Village, Kigando Parish, Kigando Sub-county.

Kyozzo Nasasira Innocent, 32, a boda boda rider from Kabateza “B” Village, Kigando Parish, Kigando Subcounty.

Preliminary investigations reveal that the deceased were hired by Otamugaya Nelson, the groom, to set up tents for his wedding, scheduled for noon the same day at Butawata Market. While erecting the tents, the metallic edge of one tent came into contact with high-voltage power lines, leading to the electrocution of the six men.

The incident involved three-phase power lines, and a task team led by the DPC Mubende, alongside the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (UEDCL), responded to the scene.

The police have opened a case of Rush and Neglect Act causing death (KSB CRB:160/202) and have begun thorough investigations. The scene has been examined and documented, and statements from relevant witnesses have been recorded.

The bodies of the deceased were transported to Mubende Regional Referral Hospital Mortuary for postmortem examinations. Otamugaya Nelson, a former teacher at Kigando SEED Secondary School, collapsed from shock and is currently receiving treatment at Mubende Regional Referral Hospital.

Police have noted that the area was rife with illegal power connections, which pose severe risks to public safety. They urge the public to avoid such dangerous practices.

“Our thoughts are with the families of the deceased. May their souls rest in peace. We are continuing our inquiries into this matter,” said SP Kawala Racheal, PRO Wamala.

The police emphasize the importance of proper safety measures and legal power connections to prevent future tragedies.