The Butaleja Territorial Police Command is investigating a single serious traffic accident that occurred in the early hours of March 9, 2025, at approximately 5:30 AM. The incident took place at a collapsed bridge along the Kangaraba-Mazimasa Road in the Butaleja District.
The accident involved a white Toyota Hilux, registration number UAZ 557W, which was carrying a team of police officers and a Umeme staff member. The vehicle was returning from a night operation conducted by Umeme when the driver, SP Erweru, lost control and rammed into the collapsed Manafwa Bridge. The bridge had reportedly been in a state of disrepair for several months.
All occupants of the vehicle sustained injuries and were rushed to a nearby medical facility for treatment. The injured include:
1. No. 68230 PC Deuke Asuman
2. No. 70634 PC Auta Augustino
3. No. 68776 PC Mujimba Topher
4. Namanda Godfrey, a 37-year-old safety officer with Umeme.
The police officers involved are attached to the FFU - Elgon Detach. The vehicle has since been towed to CPS Butaleja for further inspection as part of the ongoing investigation.
The Butaleja Traffic Police responded promptly to the scene, documented the incident, and initiated inquiries to determine the exact cause of the accident. Preliminary reports suggest that the collapsed bridge, which had been a hazard for months, played a significant role in the crash.
In a statement, IP Mugwe J. Moses, the Regional Police Public Relations Officer for Bukedi South Region, urged all road users to exercise caution while traveling. "We want to caution all road users to be vigilant and careful on the roads to avoid such unfortunate incidents. Your safety is our priority, and it should be yours too," he said.
The police also extended their wishes for a quick recovery to all the injured parties. Investigations into the accident are ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
This incident highlights the urgent need for infrastructure maintenance, particularly in rural areas, to prevent similar accidents in the future. Authorities are yet to comment on the state of the Manafwa Bridge and whether any measures will be taken to address its condition.
