“Safety must never be compromised,” the police said in a statement, urging all road users to make responsible decisions and help prevent avoidable tragedies.
Police have intercepted a taxi driver of vehicle registration number UA 667DN for dangerously transporting 35 students in conditions that authorities described as highly hazardous.
According to Uganda Traffic Police Directorate Spokesperson, Michael Kananura, the students, aged between 15 and 21, were being transported from Ibanda to Kasese when the vehicle was stopped. The driver was immediately detained at Mbarara Central Police Station and is awaiting court action.
Authorities revealed that the vehicle was severely overloaded, with some students seated on top of the vehicle while others were forced to stand or sit inside under cramped conditions. In a further alarming discovery, the vehicle was also carrying jerrycans filled with petrol, with some students reportedly stepping on them—creating a serious risk of a fire outbreak.
Police said the situation posed an imminent danger to the lives of the students and could have resulted in a catastrophic incident.
Kananura said that arrangements are currently being made to ensure the students continue their journey using safer and appropriate means of transport.
The interception followed a tip-off from a whistleblower, whom police commended for acting swiftly and helping prevent the driver from evading enforcement through alternative routes.
As the holiday travel season begins, police have issued a strong warning to motorists against reckless practices, emphasizing that strict action will be taken against offenders. Authorities also called on the public to take collective responsibility in ensuring road safety, particularly when transporting children.
“Safety must never be compromised,” the police said in a statement, urging all road users to make responsible decisions and help prevent avoidable tragedies.