A fire broke out at Musamvu Technical Secondary School (TSS) in Kibungo Sector, Ngoma District, destroying a dormitory that housed 72 beds and students’ personal belongings.

The incident occurred between 11am and 11:20am, with no deaths or injuries reported, according to police.

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SSP Hamdun Twizeyimana, the Police spokesperson in Eastern Province, told The New Times that welding activities within the school are thought to be a possible cause of the fire, but investigations were still ongoing.

"Preliminary findings suggest that someone was carrying out welding activities within the school, and sparks may have reached materials, including students&039; clothes and mattresses in the dormitory," he said.

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He said police officers, working alongside members of the community, managed to contain the fire and prevent further harm.

The fire destroyed all 72 beds, mattresses and other belongings that students had kept in the dormitory.

Twizeyimana reminded schools and other institutions to strengthen fire prevention measures and ensure they are adequately prepared to respond to emergencies.

He urged institutions to install standard fire-fighting equipment, including functional fire extinguishers, and ensure that people know how to use them.