Police in Mukono District have arrested six students of Bishop Senior Secondary School, Mukono, over their alleged involvement in an arson incident that occurred at the institution last week.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Patrick Onyango, the suspects, all Senior Four candidates who had just completed their Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations, were handed over to police by the school administration after an internal probe linked them to a dormitory fire that broke out during a student strike.
“The suspects are currently in custody, and inquiries are underway to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident,” Onyango confirmed in a statement.
Reports indicate that the fire erupted during a violent demonstration allegedly organised and led by the suspects. The unrest is said to have stemmed from grievances among students over undisclosed administrative issues.
During the chaos, one of the dormitories was set ablaze, though quick intervention by teachers and fellow students prevented the flames from spreading to other buildings. No injuries were reported.
Following the incident, the school administration launched an internal investigation to identify those responsible. The probe allegedly revealed that the six candidates had played a key role in planning and executing the unrest.
However, in order not to disrupt the ongoing national examinations, the school decided to postpone formal reporting of the matter until the end of the examination period.
Once the students had completed their final papers, the administration officially filed a complaint with Mukono Central Police Station, leading to the suspects’ arrest. Police have since opened a case of arson, with investigations still ongoing.
Police sources indicate that additional arrests may follow as detectives continue to gather statements and review evidence from the scene.
“We are still recording statements from witnesses and analysing the circumstances that led to the strike and subsequent fire. Anyone found culpable will face the law,” Onyango added.
While the dormitory sustained partial damage, there were no casualties reported. The swift response by school staff and nearby students prevented what could have been a major disaster.
The school administration has declined to comment further, saying they are cooperating fully with law enforcement authorities to ensure the matter is handled appropriately.
