By Namutebi Sumayiya
Mubende police, in collaboration with Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), a parastatal company whose primary purpose is to distribute electric power to domestic and commercial end-users in Uganda, have initiated an investigation into the death of six people who were electrocuted when a tent they were lifting accidentally swiped a live wire during preparations for a wedding.
According to the Wamala Police region spokesperson, Racheal Kawala, the incident occurred on June 06 2024 at around 09am at Butawata market, Butawata “E” Village, Kigando parish, Kigandoo Sub County in Mubende district.
She said the preliminary findings indicated that a groom Otamugaya Nelson hired the deceased to erect tents for his wedding function that was scheduled to take place Thursday at noon.
“It is alleged while erecting the tent, its metallic edge came in contact with electricity wire/lines, thereby causing electrocution resulting in the deaths of the six,” said Kawala.
She said the police and Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited, the country’s public electricity regulator, have commenced an investigation into the tragic incident.
“It has also been established that people in that area had illegal power connections. We caution members of the public against illegal power connections as it is life-threatening,” said Kawala.
The deceased were identified as Asaba Godwin Bidewa 40, Byamukama Boaz 51, .Ayebazibwe Jordan 22,Walusimbi George 19, Kakuru Ambrose 30 and Kyozzo Nasasira innocent 32y all residents of Mubende district.
A case of Rush and Neglect Act causing death was opened up and investigations have commenced vide KSB CRB: 160/202.
Kiiza Jonan, the senior corporate affairs and public relations officer at UEDCL confirmed the incident urging members of the public to avoid any operations near or under an electric installation ( MV/ HV lines) as it exposes human life to danger.