Police arrest 9 in crackdown on dangerous passenger loading in Mpigi

Mpigi, Uganda – Police in Nsangi are holding nine people in custody following a road safety incident involving a commuter taxi overloaded with passengers en route to a football match in Buwama, Mpigi District.

According to the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, the vehicle, a Toyota Hiace registration number UBH 183S, was intercepted after being flagged on surveillance cameras. The taxi was dangerously carrying 31 passengers—13 riding on the roof and 18 seated inside. Its number plates had also been deliberately obscured.

Charges for driver and passengers

Police confirmed that the driver and five passengers are facing multiple charges. The passengers have been charged with riding in a dangerous position, while the driver is charged with:

Concealing a number plate
Driving out of class
Breach of operator’s license

Authorities said the arrests form part of ongoing efforts to use technology, including road cameras, to monitor and curb reckless road behaviour.

Protest at Police Station

Following the arrests, some of the remaining passengers stormed the police station demanding the release of their colleagues. Police say they acted swiftly to contain the situation, arresting three more individuals for obstruction and inciting violence. They have also been charged. The rest of the group was dispersed from the station premises.

Police condemn reckless behaviour

In a statement, police strongly condemned the conduct of the driver and passengers, warning that such negligence has previously led to deadly crashes.

“We strongly condemn this kind of reckless and unlawful behavior. Such actions not only violate traffic regulations but also endanger lives,” the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety noted.

Authorities stressed that strict enforcement of traffic laws will continue to ensure the safety of all road users. The public has been urged to comply with road regulations and avoid interfering with lawful police duties.