Fire destroys property worth millions at Wandegeya police barracks

Millions of shillings worth of property have been destroyed in a fire at Wandegeya Police barracks in Kampala, raising concerns about congestion in police accommodation facilities.

The fire broke out at about 3pm on Thursday, October 15, prompting the deployment of more than 10 fire brigade vehicles, police ambulances and other emergency response teams to contain the blaze and prevent further destruction.

Inspector General of Police Abas Byakagaba arrived at the scene about 25 minutes after the outbreak and said "no injuries had been reported."

Mr Byakagaba said police would support officers affected by the fire as they recover from the loss of household items and other property.

He added that efforts were underway to establish the cause of the fire.

Kampala Resident City Commissioner Umaru Lule Mawiya expressed concern about congestion at the barracks, saying the cause of the fire had not been established but the close arrangement of officers’ accommodation could have contributed to the extent of the damage.

Kampala Mayor Ronald Balimwezo, who also visited the scene, expressed sympathy for the affected officers and called on police leadership to ensure adequate spacing when constructing accommodation facilities.

Balimwezo said sufficient space between buildings would ease movement and help minimise damage during emergencies.

Kmpla Metropolitan Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala confirmed the incident, saying "the Police Fire Prevention and Rescue Services team had responded to the scene."

She said investigations were underway to establish the cause of the fire and assess the extent of the damage, including the property lost.