Budaka, Uganda: Police have launched an investigation into a fire that gutted part of Budaka Park Market on the night of Monday, July 20, destroying several timber kiosks and merchandise worth an as-yet-undetermined amount.
According to Bukedi North Regional Police, the fire broke out at about 10:30 p.m. in a section of the market occupied by vendors, including chapati makers and other food sellers.
Police officers led by D/ASP Angura L. responded to the scene alongside community members and managed to contain the blaze before it spread to other sections of the market.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the affected structures were timber-made kiosks used by traders conducting various businesses within the market.
Investigators from the Scene of Crime Office (SOCO) examined the scene, photographed the affected area and documented evidence to support ongoing investigations.
Police also recorded statements from several affected traders to help establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
As part of the inquiry, investigators interviewed the market’s two night watchmen, who were reportedly on duty when the fire broke out. Their statements have also been recorded.
The cause of the fire had not been established by the time of publication, and police said investigations are continuing to determine what sparked the blaze.
No deaths or injuries were reported, while the value of the property destroyed is yet to be assessed.
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