Police is currently investigating the cause of a fire that tore through Kalerwe Market early Monday morning, damaging numerous wooden stalls before firefighters managed to bring it under control.
Preliminary reports suggest that unauthorized electrical connections might be behind the blaze, which reportedly began around 1:46 a.m. on the market’s east end along Gayaza Road.
Fire Prevention and Rescue Services swiftly responded, containing the flames before they could spread further.
“Preliminary findings suggest that the fire may have resulted from electrical sparks caused by illegal power connections and installations in the market’s kiosks,” ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, stated.
With investigations underway, authorities are urging Umeme, the electricity distributor, to conduct regular inspections, especially in markets with structures built primarily from wood.
They also highlighted the importance of certified professionals handling all electrical installations in market areas to prevent similar incidents.
Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported in the fire.
