Police rescues 18 Ugandans trapped by floods

A young man helps students of Light College Katikamu to cross River Mayanja from Kyengeza, where their school is, to Gobero town in Wakiso district, yesterday. The banks of River Mayanja burst on Sunday, following a heavy downpour. Photo by Lawrence Mulondo

The Police have confirmed they have rescued 18 people who were trapped when a boat was swept away on River Ssezibwa due the rising waters levels after the rains of Sunday.

According to Police spokesperson Emilian Kayima, the Police was notified about the calamity upon which they mounted an operation that rescued only two before night fell on Wednesday. He says on Thursday, they rescued more three.

He says they also learnt about the families that were trapped at three tinny islands between the districts of Kayunga and Nakasongola. "Our helicopter was flown to these three islands rescuing all the people trapped on these islands," he says.

He adds that it was feared that these islands could have sunk as the water levels kept rising and the winds blowing severely.

"We want to send a message warning those that reside or work in water logged areas to take extra care as the rains fall. All must report possible incidents of drowning in case it happens to the area commander for quick intervention," he adds.