Kanungu S.4 Student Arrested for Allegedly Setting Trinity College Butogota Dormitory on Fire

KANUNGU, UGANDA — Police in Kanungu District have arrested a Senior Four student of Trinity College Butogota Secondary School for allegedly setting fire to the school’s boys’ dormitory on Tuesday night.

The suspect, identified as Elisha John, a resident of Butogota Upper Cell in Butogota Town Council, is currently in police custody as investigations into the incident continue.

According to the Kigezi Regional Police spokesperson, Nelson Tumushime, the student had been suspended from the school on June 3, 2026, over allegations of gross indiscipline and violation of the school’s rules and regulations.

Police reports indicate that on the evening of June 8, at around 7:30 p.m., the suspect allegedly returned to the school premises and picked a student’s uniform from a clothesline. He reportedly wore the uniform in an attempt to blend in with other learners and avoid detection.

Authorities say the suspect later joined students in the library for evening preparatory studies before quietly leaving the area without raising suspicion.

The alleged arson was discovered during a short break when a student went to the dormitory area to fetch drinking water and noticed flames emerging from the boys’ dormitory. As the student moved closer to investigate, he reportedly saw the suspect fleeing from the scene without a shirt.

Police officers from Butogota Police Station were immediately alerted and responded to the incident. Working alongside local residents and school staff, they managed to contain the fire before it spread to other buildings within the school compound.

Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported during the incident. However, the extent of the property damage has not yet been officially disclosed.

Police have since arrested the suspect and launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire.

The incident has sparked concern among parents, students, and local leaders, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures in schools and increased efforts to address student discipline and welfare.

Authorities have urged members of the public to remain calm as investigations continue.