Two pilgrims knocked dead along Kampala-Masaka highway

KAMPALA, UGANDA: The Police at Nsangi in Wakiso are investigating a fatal accident in which two pilgrims were knocked dead along the Kampala-Masaka Highway in the wee hours of Thursday morning.

The deceased identified as Oliva Nabakooza and Specioza Nambi, both from Makondo Parish in Masaka Diocese were reportedly knocked by a speeding bus Reg No UAL 881Z Isuzu bus belonging to Perfect Company at around 3 am at St Lawrence Nakati along the Kampala- Masaka highway.

According to Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police spokesperson ASP Luke Owoyesigire, “It is alleged that the driver of the UAL 881Z Isuzu bus, while travelling from the Nsangi direction on a slope, lost control of the vehicle, veering from his lane and tragically colliding with the two pilgrims who were on their way to participate in the forthcoming Martyrs Day celebrations scheduled for 3rd June 2023 in Namugongo.”

Owoyesigyire says police at Kyengera station responded swiftly upon learning of the incident, but, unfortunately, the driver had already set off leaving the killer bus at the accident scene.

“Upon receiving the distress call, the Kyengera Police Station swiftly responded to the scene of the accident, accompanied by officers from the Nsangi Police Station and the Traffic Team from Kyengera,” the KMP Deputy publicist stated on Thursday morning.

“At present, the UAL 881Z Isuzu bus remains at the scene, awaiting assistance from a professional breakdown service to facilitate its removal, and inquiries are underway to ascertain the full details and circumstances surrounding this tragic incident,” he added.

Owoyesigyire further assured the affected families that every effort would be made to thoroughly investigate this incident.

“The Kampala Metropolitan Police Traffic Department extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families of Nabakooza Oliva and Nambi Specioza and assures them that every effort will be made to conduct a thorough investigation into this incident. We will work tirelessly to uncover the facts, determine the cause, and ensure that justice is served,” he said.

He further urged road users to exercise extreme caution and adhere to traffic rules and regulations to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.

“In light of this tragedy, we urge all road users to exercise extreme caution and adhere to traffic rules and regulations to prevent such devastating incidents in the future. We also appeal to the public to support and offer solace to the affected families during this incredibly challenging time.”

By press time, the bodies of the deceased were respectfully taken to Mulago City Mortuary for postmortem examinations as efforts get underway to have the driver who is on the run apprehended.

“We will provide updates as more information becomes available,” he concluded.