Construction worker killed, 12 injured in Lira road crash

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LIRA - A casual labourer died instantly, and at least twelve others sustained serious injuries after a tragic road crash involving a trailer and a staff bus along the Lira–Soroti highway on Wednesday evening.

The deceased was identified as Fabias Olobo, an employee of Mota Engil Road Construction Company.

According to North Kyoga Police spokesperson Patrick Jimmy Okema, the accident occurred at Corner Amach at about 8pm during heavy rainfall. A Mercedes-Benz Actros semi-trailer allegedly swerved from its lane and rammed into a company Coaster, registration UBN 572P, which was transporting workers coming from the opposite direction of Soroti.



The driver of the trailer fled the scene and remains at large.

Police confirmed that 12 other Mota Engil staff were injured. They were identified as Rehema Auro, Lawrence Omongot, Quinto Omedi, Ronald Kasula, Denis Ayuli, Benard Echeng, Monica Acio, Richard Alele, Acheng Charity, Jethrom Okalebo, Patricia Akullo, and Joshua Opiny.

Four of the victims in critical condition were transferred to Mulago National Referral Hospital, while the rest are receiving treatment at Lira Regional Referral Hospital.

“The preliminary report indicates reckless driving by the semi-trailer driver. We appeal to all road users to exercise caution, especially during heavy rain,” Mr Okema said.

The body of the deceased was taken to Lira hospital mortuary for a post-mortem. Police said both vehicles remain at the scene under guard as investigations continue.

This accident is coming a week after three people were killed in the region in separate fatal accidents.

Authorities at Mota Engil declined to comment on the accident when contacted.