Fatal Fuel Truck Explosion Ignites in Uganda

At least 11 people were killed on Tuesday after a fuel truck exploded next to a highway in Uganda, according to police.

Accident Occurred Just Outside Kampala’s Capital

The truck overturned after an accident and later exploded in a town just outside Kampala, the capital, police spokesman Patrick Onyango said. A cloud of dark smoke rose from the scene.

Video Captures Chilling Moments Before the Blast

A video shared online by an onlooker appeared to show people scooping up fuel from the truck before the blast. The dangerous scene echoed a similar incident in Nigeria last week that killed more than 140 people, including children.

Culture of Collecting Fuel Led to Disaster

People who rush to collect fuel from stricken trucks hope to sell it, despite warnings to stay away.

A History of Such Disasters in East Africa

There have been similar incidents over the years across East Africa. At least 62 people were killed in Tanzania in 2019 as they attempted to siphon fuel out of a damaged truck.

In South Sudan, at least 183 people were killed in 2015 when hundreds of villagers gathered around a fuel truck to collect fuel.

Conclusion

The recent fuel truck explosion in Uganda is just one example of the devastating consequences of attempting to collect fuel from stricken vehicles. These incidents have far-reaching implications and highlight the need for increased awareness and caution when it comes to handling fuel trucks.

FAQs

• What caused the fuel truck explosion in Uganda?
The exact cause of the explosion is not yet known, but it is believed to have been due to an accident and subsequent fuel spill.

• How many people were killed in the incident?
At least 11 people were killed in the explosion.

• Are such incidents common in East Africa?
Yes, similar incidents have occurred in several countries across East Africa, resulting in significant loss of life and property.

• What can be done to prevent such disasters?
Increased awareness and education on the dangers of collecting fuel from stricken trucks, as well as improved safety measures and emergency response systems, are essential to preventing such tragedies.