Police fire fighters have a tough day today putting out the numerous fires that has been lit by demonstrators protesting against Thursday’s brutal arrest of Besigye on Thursday.
Rioting mobs using rubber tires lit up fires in Ntinda, Kibuli, Kireka, Nansana, and Najera.They pelted stones at Motorists and ordered passengers off the boda bodas.
police say up to ten fire trucks have been working all day trying to put out the bon fires.
In Mengo, some protesters confronted passengers ordered them out of vehicles. They demanded to know whether the passengers traveling in the vehicles were more important than Besigye who they say has been actively participating in the “Walk to Work”, protests.
Initial reports linked three deaths to the rioting, and scores others have sustained gunshot wounds and other injuries believed to relate to the rioting.
In drama that unfolded this morning, violence erupted first at Kiseka market and radiated to many areas in and out of the city.
Several people ran onto hideouts or hurled objects, stopping traffic for several hours. Some motorists panicked and made U-turns, heading the wrong direction in search of an exit.
The anger over Besigye’s brutal arrest simmered through mid morning, then turned ugly as protesters engaged police in running battles.
In Mengo, youths carrying heavy stones blocked off Namirembe Road.
Traffic in the city has been grounded to a halt as rainy clouds hang over the city. Passengers have remained glued to their seats because the taxis cannot move out.
Judith Nabakoba, the police spokesperson, says the fire brigade trucks are on standby and have so far responded to several fire outbreaks in many parts of the city.
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