By KT Reporter
At least six people, including five Kyambogo University students, are critically injured following a gas explosion at Sports Pro Hostel in Banda Zone Nine, Nakawa Division, a suburb of Kampala.
The blast, which occurred Monday night when a student was reportedly cooking in her room, ripped through the ground floor of the three-story building, shattering windows and doors, and injuring several people in the vicinity.
Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson Patrick Onyango confirmed the incident, saying: “Our teams of Police officers from the fire and rescue departments responded promptly to the scene and secured the area. Victims were referred to Naguru and Mulago Hospitals for further treatment, the damage was big.”
Among the most severely injured is Frank, the hostel’s security guard, who was first rushed to a local clinic before being transferred to Naguru Hospital. Five Kyambogo students were also injured, including Flavia Chelangat and Florence Akello, while the identities of three others remain unknown.
Onyango attributed the explosion to a gas cylinder and cautioned the public:
“The cause of the explosion has been confirmed as a cooking gas cylinder, but we want to remind the public that it’s crucial to handle cooking gas cylinders with care and follow safety guidelines to prevent such incidents.”
Police have since cordoned off the hostel as investigations continue. Gas usage in Ugandan homes has been rising due to convenience, efficiency, and affordability.
However, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources acknowledges the lack of specific regulations governing the gas industry and is currently working to develop comprehensive rules for the oil and gas sector.
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