A fire broke out on the night of January 16, 2025, causing significant damage to several businesses along Naboa Road in the South Central Ward, Industrial Division of Mbale City, Uganda.
According to SP Rogers Taitika, the Elgon Region Police Spokesperson, the fire started around 11:30 PM in a commercial building that housed various businesses.
The building, previously owned by the late Takhuli Edward, is currently managed by his widow, Takhuli Miriam, and their three sons: Matanda Andrew, Wamangala Christopher, and Magomu David.
Upon receiving the alarm, SP Kamayo Rashid, the Regional Fire Officer, and his team responded swiftly.
While the fire had already reached its peak intensity upon their arrival, firefighters successfully contained the blaze by 11:59 PM.
Two shops, an electronics store, and a boutique, were completely destroyed by the fire. However, the remaining 12 businesses, including salons, clothing stores, and bars, were spared, and their owners were able to salvage their property.
Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported.
SP Taitika suspects that the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit. The incident has been officially recorded under SD Ref: 16/16/01/2025.
