A house and household property worth millions of shillings were destroyed in a fire in Rubanda District, Uganda. The incident occurred on September 22, 2026, in Rwamugura Village, Kakore Parish, Hamurwa Sub-county. According to police, the fire was caused by a cigarette butt that fell onto dry material. The homeowner, Peter Kyompeire, had recently separated from his wife and was under the influence of alcohol when the incident happened.
Peter Kyompeire entered the house while smoking, and a burning cigarette butt allegedly fell onto dry material, quickly setting the house on fire. The flames gutted the entire house, destroying household belongings worth millions of shillings, including bedding, clothes, and foodstuffs. Fortunately, Kyompeire managed to escape from the house unharmed after realizing it was on fire.
The Kigezi Region Police spokesperson, Nelson Tumushime, confirmed the incident and urged the public to take extra care when smoking indoors, particularly in homes containing dry materials or highly flammable substances. Tumushime advised smokers to properly extinguish cigarette butts and avoid careless smoking to prevent fires that can destroy property and endanger lives.
The incident highlights the dangers of careless smoking, especially in homes with dry materials. The police are still investigating the incident, and it is unclear what measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The local community is advised to be cautious and take necessary precautions to avoid such incidents.
The fire has left the homeowner, Peter Kyompeire, without a place to stay, and his household property was destroyed. The cause of the fire serves as a reminder of the importance of being mindful of one's actions, especially when it comes to smoking indoors. The incident also raises concerns about the safety of homes in the area.
Authorities have not provided information on the estimated value of the destroyed property. However, it is clear that the fire had a significant impact on the homeowner and his family. The incident serves as a warning to the public to be more cautious and responsible when smoking indoors.
The Uganda Radio Network has learned that the incident is under investigation, and police are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the fire. The authorities are urging the public to report any similar incidents and to take necessary precautions to prevent fires.
Key points
- A house fire in Rubanda District was caused by a cigarette butt that fell onto dry material.
- The homeowner, Peter Kyompeire, escaped unharmed but lost household property worth millions of shillings.
- Authorities are urging the public to take extra care when smoking indoors to prevent similar incidents.
