The Police have launched investigations into two separate arson incidents reported in Wakiso and Mukono districts, both of which occurred in the early hours of January 1, 2026.
Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire said the first incident was reported in Wakiso District under Kampala Metropolitan North at Kireka–Bira village, Nakabugo Parish, Wakiso Sub-county.
“The complainant, Mercy Natukunda, reported that on the night of December 31, 2025, she and her husband left their home to attend overnight prayers. At about 4am on January 1, 2026, neighbours noticed the house on fire,” Owoyesigyire said.
Although the fire was eventually extinguished, several household items, including mattresses, clothes and suitcases, were completely destroyed.
A neighbour reported seeing a woman leaving the scene shortly after the fire started, and the suspect is believed to be known to the complainant.
Owoyesigyire said police visited and documented the scene, recorded statements from witnesses and arrested a suspect to assist with investigations, adding that inquiries into the incident are ongoing.
In a separate case reported under Kampala Metropolitan East in Mukono District, Police received a complaint of arson at Kitega village.
“The complainant, Ritah Namutebi, reported that she had been away from home for several weeks and, upon returning, briefly went out to usher in the New Year. On her return, she found the house engulfed in flames, with all her property destroyed,” Owoyesigyire said.
He added that the complainant reported having previously received threats from a man known to her, with preliminary inquiries indicating there had been ongoing domestic disagreements.
Police documented the scene, recorded statements from the complainant and witnesses, and recovered exhibits to aid investigations. Efforts are underway to trace and interview the suspect.
Owoyesigyire said police are treating both incidents as arson cases and that investigations are continuing, with further updates to be communicated as inquiries progress.
