Tragedy struck in the aftermath of the day’s downpour; two children tragically drowned in their home during the heavy flooding that hit Kampala; their mother has been arrested.
ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, deputy spokesperson of the Kampala Metropolitan Police, observed that, “It is with deep sadness that we confirm the drowning of two young children in Mulimira Zone, Bukoto, after being left alone in a locked house.”
“We are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and have arrested the mother in connection with her actions.”
Rose Mary Lenunu, the mother of Eliza Otim Kisa, aged 3, and 11-month-old Chon Ochaka, is detained by Kira Road Police on charges of negligence after reports surfaced that she had locked the children inside the house while she went about her daily duties.
Shocked neighbors revealed that the mother had previously left the children unattended.
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“It was a practice we had seen before, but never did we expect something like this would happen,” said a neighbor, who requested to remain anonymous. “We never thought it would end in such a heartbreaking way.”
Preliminary reports indicate that the house was locked, preventing the children from escaping the rising floodwaters.
Police reminded the public to take extra precautions during periods of heavy rainfall.
“This tragedy is a stark reminder of the importance of securing your home and ensuring the safety of your children during extreme weather conditions,” Owoyesigyire added.
The Wednesday morning downpour caused flooding in Kampala and surrounding areas, leaving behind widespread damage across the city, with motor accidents and several residents being swept away by the rising waters.
The police and rescue teams have been working tirelessly to respond to the emergency situation.
“We are doing everything we can to assist those affected,” Owoyesigyire continued. “But we urge the public to avoid unnecessary movement during heavy rains to prevent further incidents.”
In the Kinawataka area, three more bodies were recovered from the floodwaters, though authorities are still working to identify them.
“Our teams continue to assess the situation and offer support to the families of the deceased,” Owoyesigyire said.
The bodies of the children were recovered from the flooded home, along with the other victims, and have been transported to the City Mortuary, Mulago, for postmortem examinations.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected by this tragedy,” Owoyesigyire concluded.
“This serves as a warning for all of us to take the necessary precautions during this rainy season and ensure our safety and the safety of others.”
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