Kampala – Authorities have commenced investigations following the unauthorized demolition of a structure forming part of St. Balikudembe Market commonly known as Owino Market, in a late-night operation carried out by unidentified individuals.
According to a statement issued by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the incident occurred at around 10:00 p.m. on the night of March 7, 2026. Unknown persons reportedly descended on a structure located along the boundary of the Nakivubo Channel on Sebana Road and demolished it without authorization.
KCCA described the act as reckless, noting that the demolition was conducted without securing the required demolition permit from the city authority.
“This reckless demolition, carried out under the cover of darkness, was done without obtaining a demolition permit from the City Authority,” KCCA said in the statement.
The authority added that it is currently working with other government agencies to salvage what remains of the structure and to establish the circumstances under which the demolition occurred.
“Kampala Capital City Authority, in collaboration with sister agencies, is actively working to salvage what remains of the structure and ensure that those responsible for this destruction of a public good are brought to book,” the statement added.
Police have since arrested the operators of two machines that were being used in the demolition exercise. Investigations into the matter have commenced to determine who ordered the operation and whether other individuals were involved.
The structure is part of the larger St. Balikudembe Market complex, one of the busiest commercial hubs in the city, serving thousands of traders and shoppers daily.
Authorities say further updates will be provided as investigations progress.
