Authorities have arrested a man suspected of attempting to set fire to the Kasubi Royal Tombs after he was found at the heritage site with a bottle of petrol and matches in the early hours of the morning.
The suspect, identified as Joseph Ssebunya, a resident of Nakulabye in Masiiro Zone, was intercepted at around 3am after he had already placed a ladder against the fence.
He was reportedly found carrying a one-litre plastic bottle of petrol and a box of matches concealed in a black polythene bag.
According to eyewitness Deo Kiwanuka, who was returning home from work, he noticed someone climbing the wall and decided to investigate.
When confronted, Ssebunya allegedly punched Kiwanuka, prompting him to call for help.
Residents quickly gathered and attempted to lynch the suspect before soldiers arrived and rescued him.
Police from Old Kampala Station, led by DPC Francis Liga, visited the scene later in the morning, reenacted the suspect’s movements, and took him into custody for further questioning.
During interrogation, Ssebunya appeared disoriented and gave inconsistent answers regarding his intentions and the source of the petrol.
Authorities have since launched investigations to determine whether he acted alone or under instruction.