By Vicent Emong
Four people sustained critical injuries following a road traffic accident that occurred in the early hours of the morning along the Soroti–Mbale highway in Kumi District.
The crash, which happened at around 1:30 a.m. along the Oderu–Odelo stretch, involved a passenger bus and a stationary trailer, raising fresh concerns about road safety and nighttime parking practices on major highways.
According to the South Kyoga Regional Police spokesperson, ASP Stephen Mukombe, a Mercedes-Benz trailer, registration number KBP 564J/Z25, driven by Ali Hassan, a Kenyan national, had been parked along the roadside at the time of the incident.
Mukombe explained that a Gateway Isuzu bus, registration number UBP 492W, which was traveling from Soroti to Mbale, rammed into the rear of the stationary trailer upon reaching the scene.
❝ “The bus knocked the parked trailer from behind and veered off the road. The preliminary cause of the accident was obstruction on the road.” ❞
— ASP Stephen Mukombe
The impact caused significant damage to the bus and left four occupants critically injured. Police responded swiftly to the scene and facilitated the evacuation of the victims to a nearby health facility for urgent medical attention.
Authorities confirmed that no fatalities had been recorded by the time of reporting, though the condition of the injured remains serious.
The incident has once again highlighted the dangers associated with improper parking of heavy vehicles along highways, especially during nighttime hours when visibility is low.
Mukombe urged motorists, particularly truck drivers, to adhere strictly to road safety guidelines, including the use of reflective warning signs and hazard indicators when parking along roads.
❝ “Drivers must ensure they place proper warning signs whenever they stop along the road, especially at night, to avoid putting other road users at risk.” ❞
— ASP Stephen Mukombe
He also called on drivers to remain vigilant while driving at night and to maintain safe speeds, particularly on highways known for frequent heavy vehicle traffic.
Police have since launched investigations to establish further details surrounding the crash, including whether all safety precautions had been observed by the driver of the stationary trailer.
As investigations continue, authorities are appealing to all road users to prioritize safety and responsibility to prevent similar incidents.
