MBALE CITY, UGANDA 23 March 2026– Authorities are calling for heightened public vigilance following a violent explosion from a suspected wartime bomb, in the Industrial Division of Mbale City.
The unfortunate incident occurred on March 17, 2026, at a scrap metal workshop in St. Andrews Cell, South Central Ward. According to official reports, the blast was triggered by an unidentified object mixed within a load of scrap metal.
The explosion happened while four individuals were in the process of offloading a consignment of metal from a delivery vehicle. The force of the blast caused immediate injuries to the workers on-site.
Emergency services responded swiftly, evacuating the four victims to Mbale Hospital. Medical officials confirm that the injured are currently undergoing treatment, though the specific severity of their injuries has not been publicly disclosed.
Police Investigation
The Police Bomb Squad was dispatched to the scene shortly after the blast to secure the area and conduct a forensic sweep. Investigators successfully recovered fragments of the suspected explosive device.
”Fragments of the suspected explosive device were recovered and have been taken for detailed analysis and examination,” stated SSP Diana Nandawula, Deputy Police Spokesperson.
The specialized unit is working to determine the origin of the device and whether it was an unexploded ordnance (UXO) from a previous conflict or a modern industrial explosive.
In light of the event, Uganda Police have issued a stern warning to the public, particularly those in the recycling and scrap metal industry.
Vigilance: Scrap dealers are urged to inspect materials carefully before handling or transporting them.
Reporting: Any unfamiliar or suspicious-looking metallic objects should not be tampered with.
Immediate Action: Citizens are advised to cordon off any suspicious areas and contact the nearest security agency immediately.
The investigation remains ongoing as experts analyze the recovered debris to prevent further risk to the community.
