Tragic Fuel Explosion in Uganda

A fuel truck explosion in Uganda resulted in at least 11 fatalities. The truck overturned and ignited near Kampala, with bystanders reportedly attempting to collect fuel prior to the explosion. This incident mirrors previous fuel-related tragedies in Nigeria, Tanzania, and South Sudan.

A tragic incident unfolded in Uganda on Tuesday when a fuel truck exploded, resulting in the deaths of at least 11 people, according to police reports.

The catastrophic event occurred when the truck overturned near a highway outside Kampala, the capital city. Witnesses report that a cloud of thick, black smoke soon enveloped the area following the blast, as recounted by police spokesman Patrick Onyango.

Videos circulated on social media show individuals dangerously attempting to siphon fuel from the truck before the explosion, a grim scenario reminiscent of last week's tragic event in Nigeria, where over 140 people lost their lives. Despite frequent warnings, people often rush to collect fuel from overturned trucks, hoping to profit from its sale. This hazardous practice has led to numerous fatalities in East Africa, notably in Tanzania in 2019 and South Sudan in 2015.

(With inputs from agencies.)