By Richard Onapatum
Kotido, Uganda – A devastating fire outbreak in Nayeel village, Lokorok parish, Lokwakel sub-county, Kotido District, has left approximately 50 families homeless, destroying grass-thatched houses and household properties. The incident occurred on February 20, 2025, at around 4:00 PM.
According to reports from Kotido Police Station under CRB 051/2025, the fire started inside the home of Lokayeli Olingakori, a resident of Nayeel village. Olingakori stated that he was taking a shower when he noticed flames engulfing his grass-thatched house, where his 10-year-old daughter, Achia Lillian, was cooking.
Despite his efforts to extinguish the fire and salvage household belongings, the blaze spread rapidly due to strong winds and the close proximity of the houses. The child reportedly fled the scene in fear and has not yet been located.
The fire quickly extended to neighboring homes, affecting approximately 50 households across a total area of about one and a half acres. Residents lost all their belongings, leaving families homeless and without food.
Police from Nakapelimoru station and Kotido Central Police Station responded to the incident, launching an investigation andq documenting the crime scene. Detectives and forensic officers examined the site, recorded witness statements, and captured photographic evidence.
Authorities have identified the minor’s cooking activity as the probable cause of the fire. Further investigations are ongoing, and efforts to locate the missing child continue. Meanwhile, affected families are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, including shelter and food supplies.
DSP Faizo Balyejjusa, the District CID Officer for Kotido, confirmed that police are conducting thorough inquiries into the incident.
Local leaders and relief agencies are being urged to provide emergency support to those affected by the tragic fire outbreak. The LCV Chairperson, Lotee Paul Komol, has appealed for immediate relief efforts and is currently in Kampala seeking assistance for the affected families.
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