Factory worker dies after being hit by forklift in Mukono
“Unfortunately, doctors on duty found him breathless and he was later pronounced dead. The body has since been conveyed to Mulago City Mortuary for a postmortem examination,” said Owoyesigyire.
A 60-year-old factory worker died after being knocked by a forklift machine at Polysack Factory in Kigunga.
By Simon Masaba
Journalists @New Vision
MUKONO - Police in Mukono district are investigating circumstances under which a 60-year-old factory worker died after being knocked by a forklift machine at Polysack Factory in Kigunga.
Rogers Deebat, who was a machine operator at the factory, was on duty when he was fatally hit on Monday (September 8).
Luke Owoyesigyire, deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, said the tragedy happened at around 4:30pm.
“It is alleged that while at work, the deceased was knocked by a forklift machine. He was rushed to the factory clinic but his condition worsened,” Owoyesigyire said in a statement on Wednesday.
He added that Deebat was later transferred in a community ambulance headed for Kibuli Hospital in Kampala. However, as they approached Bweyogerere, Deebat's condition deteriorated further and the driver diverted to Gwatiiro Hospital.
“Unfortunately, doctors on duty found him breathless and he was later pronounced dead. The body has since been conveyed to Mulago City Mortuary for a postmortem examination,” said Owoyesigyire.
Police said detectives have already visited the factory premises and are working to record statements from eyewitnesses and obtain CCTV footage to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“We are also actively tracing the suspect who was allegedly driving the forklift at the time to aid our inquiries,” added Owoyesigyire.
He cautioned the public against speculation, stressing that preliminary findings show no evidence to suggest the incident was intentional. “This is a case of suspected rash and neglect, and police are conducting thorough investigations."
The police spokesperson conveyed condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late Deebat during what he called “a very difficult time".
He further appealed to factories and workplaces to strengthen safety standards and practices to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
“We urge management of factories to put in place strict safety measures because accidents of this nature are preventable."