Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-19 10:02:43
A tragic incident occurred at Victory Nursery and Primary School in Busia municipality, where a fire broke out in the boys’ dormitory on Monday morning, resulting in the death of four pupils and hospitalization of two others. The deceased were identified as James Magero, John Richard Oburu, Mahmood Ali, and Odero Makokha, all ranging from Primary Three to Primary Six.
The Bukedi South Region Police spokesperson, Mr Moses Mubi, has indicated that the fire is suspected to have been intentionally started. One of the survivors recounted hearing something being poured in the dormitory before a blast ignited a huge flame. Preliminary investigations suggest that 62 pupils were asleep in the dormitory at the time of the fire, with four victims unable to escape the inferno due to being deep asleep.
The police are considering the possibility of arson as the cause of the fire and are following various leads to uncover the truth behind the tragic incident. While some children managed to alert others and flee the burning dormitory, the victims were unable to escape in time.
The school director, security guard, and matron on duty that night have provided statements to the police, who are looking into a potential case of negligence of duty. Parents have expressed concerns about security gaps at the school, citing reports of strangers attacking dormitories at night. They also highlighted the collapse of part of the school fence, making it easier for intruders to access the premises.
Parents have raised issues about the lack of adequate security measures, such as having only one night guard for the entire school. The Busia municipal inspector of Schools mentioned that the school was operating an illegal boarding section without the necessary licensing and inspection from the Ministry of Education and Sports. He attributed this to political pressure that hindered the proper regulation of such establishments.
In response to the incident, a security meeting led by the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) has instructed the school to close for a week immediately, with all parents advised to take their children home. This measure aims to ensure the safety and well-being of the students in light of the tragic event.
The community in Busia is grappling with the aftermath of the fire at Victory Nursery and Primary School, with investigations ongoing to determine the exact cause of the blaze. The loss of young lives in such circumstances has sparked concerns about the safety and security of students in schools, prompting authorities to take necessary actions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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