A tragic crash in Mpigi District has claimed one life and left six others injured, just hours after police publicly warned about the vehicle’s reckless conduct.
The fatal incident happened around 5:45 pm on Sunday evening at Lwafumu Forest along the Bunjako–Buwama road.
The van involved, a Toyota Drone with registration number UBM 672G, had been seen earlier in viral videos carrying revellers in blatantly dangerous positions.
According to Traffic Police Spokesperson Michael Kananura, the van was speeding when it lost control, struck a pavement, and overturned.
“One person has been confirmed dead and six others injured,” he said on Monday. The driver fled the scene and remains at large.
Police Had Issued a Public Warning Hours Before
Ironically, the crash came shortly after Kananura had taken to social media to condemn the same van’s reckless behavior.
He shared a now-viral video showing jubilant revellers dangerously hanging off the moving vehicle.
“What makes you risk your life so recklessly?” he posted. “Do you really need police to remind you that your life is in danger?”
The footage sparked outrage and concern, prompting police to intervene.
Van Had Been Intercepted Earlier—But Defied Police Orders
The van had earlier been stopped at Lungala on the Kampala–Masaka highway, alongside three other vehicles—UBG 649K, UBM 631E, and UAR 351Z. All were flagged for multiple traffic violations, including:
- Carrying passengers in unsafe positions
- Operating without valid operator licenses
- Reckless driving
- Concealing number plates
While three drivers complied and were detained at Mpigi Police Station, the driver of UBM 672G refused to stop and sped off.
Thanks to concerned citizens who shared video evidence, police were able to track the group. But by then, the consequences had turned deadly.
Police: “Being Stopped Could Save Your Life”
Kananura used the moment to issue a stern reminder: obeying traffic stops is not an inconvenience—it could be the difference between life and death.
“This is a stark reminder that what may appear to be an inconvenience—such as being stopped by traffic police—could actually be a critical, life-saving intervention.”
He warned all motorists, especially during the festive season, to avoid risky behaviors.
“We are aware of the season, but public safety must not be compromised,” Kananura stressed. “We urge all road users to prioritise safety and value their lives and those of others.”
The injured passengers were rushed to nearby medical facilities. Their conditions remain unclear as investigations continue. Police have launched a manhunt for the driver of the van.
Uganda’s Road Safety Crisis
This crash once again highlights Uganda’s ongoing road safety challenges, particularly during weekends and holidays.
Party convoys, speeding, and disregard for traffic laws continue to contribute to unnecessary deaths.
It’s a grim pattern that authorities—and road users—must urgently break.
