Authorities have arrested a man suspected of attempting to set the historic Kasubi Tombs ablaze during the early hours of Saturday morning.
The suspect, identified as Joseph Ssebunya, a resident of Nakulabye in Masiiro Zone, was caught at around 3am after allegedly climbing the fence with a bottle of petrol and a box of matches hidden in a black polythene bag.
According to eyewitness Deo Kiwanuka, who was returning home from work, he spotted Ssebunya climbing the wall and went closer to find out what was happening. When he confronted him, the suspect is said to have punched Kiwanuka, prompting him to raise an alarm.
Residents quickly surrounded the area and attempted to beat the suspect. However, soldiers arrived in time and rescued him before things got out of hand.
Police led by Old Kampala DPC Francis Liga later visited the scene, reenacted the events and took Ssebunya into custody for interrogation.
Sources say the suspect appeared confused and gave conflicting statements about his intentions and where he got the petrol. Investigations are underway to establish whether he was working alone or sent by someone.
The incident comes as Buganda Kingdom continues to protect the Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was previously destroyed by fire on March 16, 2010. The blaze remains one of Uganda’s most painful cultural tragedies after it completely burnt Muzibu Azaala Mpanga, the main mausoleum where four Buganda Kings were buried.
Despite inquiries, no one was ever conclusively held responsible, sparking tension between the Kingdom and central government at the time.
Reconstruction of the Tombs is currently nearing completion, and security at the site had already been tightened following past cases of vandalism and suspected arson attempts.
Authorities say more security measures will now be enforced to prevent similar incidents.
