Is it Difficult to Stop Careless Overtaking? Police Asks Motorists After Seven Perish in Nwoya Bus Accident

By Ben Musanje

In the wake of a deadly road crash early this morning, the Police Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has urged motorists to reflect on the dangers of careless overtaking. This is after a crash, which occurred at approximately 1:15 a.m. at Lapok Mor in Nwoya District, has left seven people dead and several others injured, prompting the police to call for immediate changes in driving behavior on Ugandan roads.

Michael Kananura, Traffic Police spokesperson, while addressing the media at police headquarters in Naguru on Monday, explained that the accident involved an Isuzu bus, registration number UBP 736U, operated by Nile Star Coaches, and a Sudanese-registered Benz Actros trailer, SSD 048/SSD 498C. The bus, driven by Abogo Mandela Kadim, was reportedly attempting to overtake two other vehicles when it collided head-on with the oncoming trailer. Four passengers were killed on the spot, and 16 others were rushed to Anaka Hospital. Tragically, three more passengers succumbed to their injuries, raising the death toll to seven.

Eyewitnesses on the bus reported that the driver had been driving recklessly throughout the journey, and passengers had voiced their concerns. However, when they attempted to report the issue, the conductor responded rudely instead of taking corrective action. This tragic incident is just the latest in a series of crashes linked to careless overtaking, a behavior that continues to claim lives on Uganda’s roads.

Kananura emphasized that reckless overtaking continues to be a leading cause of road fatalities, particularly at night when visibility is poor. He pointed out that careless overtaking and speeding together accounted for 42% of all road crashes in Uganda in 2025, according to the Police Annual Crime Report. “We need to ask ourselves: Is the risk of overtaking really worth it?” Kananura said. “We all must reflect on our driving habits and understand that such behavior puts lives in danger.”

The spokesperson stressed that despite ongoing enforcement operations, the issue of reckless overtaking remains prevalent. Kananura said that the police continue to see frequent crashes caused by impatience, poor judgment, and unsafe overtaking. He urged drivers to remain calm and avoid overtaking as a way to prove a point or out of frustration, particularly when driving conditions are not ideal.

In light of this, Kananura shared several tips to help drivers avoid the risks of careless overtaking. He explained that overtaking should only be done when absolutely necessary and after considering road conditions and visibility. Drivers should never overtake on blind corners or narrow roads where they cannot see oncoming traffic. He also reminded motorists to be aware of pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in busy areas like schools or trading centers, where overtaking can be especially hazardous.

He further emphasized the importance of vehicle safety. “Make sure your vehicle is in good mechanical condition before attempting to overtake,” Kananura advised. He pointed out that even smaller vehicles, which may not have the power to overtake safely, could cause catastrophic accidents, particularly in cases of head-on collisions.

Kananura also discussed the police’s recent enforcement efforts, highlighting that between April 27 and May 3, 2026, they apprehended 1,227 traffic offenders. These included 173 cases of careless overtaking, along with violations such as driving in unsafe conditions, driving without a license, and riding without helmets. However, he reiterated that enforcement alone is not enough to solve the problem, and that each driver must take personal responsibility for road safety.

“Police can’t be everywhere at once,” Kananura said. “Road safety starts with each and every one of us. It’s not just about the fear of getting caught; it’s about protecting ourselves and others on the road.”

The police spokesperson called on the public to actively report unsafe driving behavior, offering several contact channels, including the toll-free number 0800-199-099, WhatsApp at 0779-999-999, and social media platforms. He stressed that the police are closely monitoring these channels and responding to reports swiftly to ensure accountability for reckless drivers.

As the investigation into this morning’s fatal crash continues, Kananura concluded by urging all motorists to adopt safer driving practices, respect traffic rules, and work together to reduce the number of accidents caused by reckless overtaking. “We all have a role to play in keeping our roads safe,” he said. “Let’s prioritize patience, awareness, and caution to prevent further loss of life.” (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).