Two Mechanics Killed, Three Injured in Gas Cylinder Explosion in Lira

What the report says

LIRA CITY — Watchdog Uganda reported that two mechanics were killed and three other people injured after a gas cylinder exploded at a garage in Ireda Central Park Cell, Lira City, on Saturday evening, October 10, 2026. Police said the blast happened around 6:00pm while the mechanics were reportedly repairing a motorcycle using a gas cylinder.

The deceased were identified as Okabo James and another man named only as Daniel. According to the report, both were adult male mechanics and died at the scene. The injured people had not yet been identified in the initial police update. The incident occurred in a busy market area, where members of the public were nearby.

The explosion also caused damage beyond the garage. Police findings cited in the report say fragments from the cylinder struck a parked white trailer, damaging its front bumper and windscreen. The bodies were taken to Lira Regional Referral Hospital for postmortem examinations, while the injured were evacuated to the same hospital for treatment.

Territorial Police in North Kyoga Region, through Lira City East Division, have opened a case of death by explosion as investigators work to determine the exact cause and verify the identities of those involved. The report said police also urged the public to handle gas cylinders and other pressurised equipment with caution during repair work.