Nearly 700 motorists arrested during Easter road safety operations

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Police say they arrested 690 motorists during intensified Easter road safety operations targeting reckless and drunk driving.

Traffic Police spokesperson Michael Kananura told reporters at the Police headquarters in Naguru on Tuesday that the operations, popularly known as Kawunyemu (in reference to the breathalyser test), were mounted across major highways and urban centres to curb indiscipline on the roads during the busy festive holiday.

“We carried out a number of operations targeting drivers who were intoxicated, speeding, and driving recklessly. Many arrests were made, and these operations will continue to ensure safety on our roads,” he said.

Meanwhile, a tragic road crash that occurred on Tuesday morning along the Masaka–Mbarara highway claimed the lives of 11 people.

Eight victims died on the spot while three others succumbed to injuries later in hospital, Police said.

Several others sustained injuries and are receiving treatment.

Among the deceased was a police officer, identified as Ernest Abaho, attached to Mukono Police Station.

Preliminary findings indicate the impact was severe, with one of the vehicles overturning and landing upside down. Investigations into the exact cause of the crash are ongoing, with police promising to release more details upon conclusion of inquiries.

Speeding and indiscipline

Kananura said the Easter period saw heavy traffic flow along major highways as Ugandans travelled upcountry and back to urban centres, increasing the risk of accidents.

“We observed significant traffic on the road network across the country, especially on highways and in urban areas, as people moved to celebrate Easter."

Amid growing concerns over road safety in Uganda, authorities blame driver behaviour for the majority of crashes.

Speaking during the release of the 2025 Annual Crime Report last week, Director of Traffic and Road Safety Lawrence Niwabiine cited speeding and indiscipline as leading causes.

“We are seeing very risky behaviour on our roads, including extreme speeding. These incidents are not isolated and explain why many crashes are happening, especially on weekends."

He warned that the period between Friday and Sunday remains the most dangerous, with men forming the majority of victims due to a mix of speeding, fatigue, alcohol consumption, and disregard for traffic rules.

Despite sustained road safety campaigns since 2021 targeting communities, schools, and religious institutions, crash numbers continue to rise, driven by rapid urbanisation and increased vehicle use.

Police recorded 26,044 road crashes in 2025, including 4,602 fatal, 13,563 serious, and 7,879 minor incidents — representing a 3.7% increase compared to 2024.

Motorcycles, commonly known as boda bodas, remain the most affected, contributing a significant share of fatalities and serious injuries. Hit-and-run cases also continue to complicate investigations.