Uganda landslide death toll soars to 15

The death toll in a landslide disaster in the western Ugandan district of Kasese has risen to 15, a local relief agency said on Wednesday.

The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) told reporters that the bodies of the victims have been recovered from the landslide in Rukoki Sub-County, Kasika village.

The landslide was triggered by heavy rains on Tuesday night, according to the URCS.

The humanitarian agency said earlier a few households are feared buried due to the landslide.

Six people who were injured have been referred to St. Paul’s Hospital in Kasese municipality.

Uganda’s western region is currently facing heavy rains which have in recent days led to landslides, causing casualties and destroying houses and crops.

On Saturday, four people were reported dead in the neighbouring Bundibugyo district after heavy rains sparked mudslides.