Rakai District in Uganda is mourning the loss of at least 10 residents who died in a devastating motor crash. The victims were on their way to a burial ceremony in the neighbouring Isingiro District when the accident occurred.
The fuso truck, carrying over 35 residents from the villages of Ssanje and Kigolomolo in Kyarurangira Sub County, is reported to have lost control and overturned several times.
This horrific incident resulted in the instantaneous death of 10 occupants and left several others with severe injuries.
The crash occurred around 1pm at Lwabaganda Cell, Dyango Town Council, located on the border with Isingiro District. Eyewitnesses recount the vehicle moving at a high speed before the driver lost control, causing it to overturn multiple times.
Among the first responders was Mr. Kaggwa Ssekamwa, the Rakai District Chairperson, who reported that 20 of the survivors sustained serious injuries. He urged health workers to provide the casualties with maximum care to save their lives.
The Rakai District Police Commander, Mr. Justus Tashobya, confirmed the incident and revealed that the driver of the ill-fated truck fled the scene immediately after the crash.
He expressed his sorrow over the unfortunate incident, especially as it occurred just before the Easter holidays.
Mr. Tashobya warned motorists against reckless driving, which is a significant cause of road carnage. He acknowledged the poor condition of the roads but emphasized the importance of learning to use them safely to avoid such accidents.