Police in Nsangi have arrested six people after intercepting a dangerously overloaded taxi headed for a football match in Buwama, Mpigi District on Sunday.
The Toyota Hiace, registration number UBH 183S, was found carrying 31 passengers with 18 squeezed inside and 13 dangerously riding on top. Its number plates had also been deliberately obscured, according to police.
SP Michael Kananura, the spokesperson for the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, confirmed that the driver and five passengers were detained immediately.
“The passengers have been charged with riding in a dangerous position, while the driver is facing multiple charges including concealing a number plate, driving out of class, and breach of operator’s license,” SP Kananura explained.
The vehicle was tracked and intercepted using surveillance cameras as part of efforts to curb reckless road behavior.
Following the arrests, a group of passengers stormed Nsangi Police Station demanding the release of their colleagues.
Police contained the situation and arrested three more individuals for obstruction and inciting violence. The rest of the group was dispersed.
SP Kananura condemned the actions, warning that such recklessness puts lives at risk.
“We strongly condemn this kind of reckless and unlawful behavior. Such actions not only violate traffic regulations but also endanger lives. Traffic has recorded tragic crashes linked to such negligence, leading to loss of lives and serious injuries,” he said.
He added that police remains committed to strict enforcement of traffic laws.
“We call upon the public to adhere to traffic rules and refrain from actions that compromise road safety or interfere with lawful police duties,” Kananura emphasized.
