A tragic fuel tanker explosion near the Ugandan capital, Kampala, has claimed the lives of at least 24 people, the government confirmed on Sunday.
The devastating incident occurred on Tuesday in the town of Kigogwa, roughly 25 kilometers north of the capital. Initial reports indicated 11 fatalities at the scene, with the death toll rising to 24 as of Sunday.
The government attributed the surge in casualties to severe burns suffered by victims, making identification challenging.
Authorities are employing DNA testing to identify the deceased.
The fuel tanker, en route from Kampala to the northern city of Gulu, overturned and ignited, leading to the catastrophic explosion.
The driver remains at large.
Several individuals injured in the blast are currently receiving medical treatment.
This tragic event echoes similar disasters in Uganda and Nigeria. In October, a fuel tanker explosion in Nigeria resulted in over 170 deaths.
Uganda has also witnessed numerous fatal accidents involving fuel tankers in recent years.