KAPCHORWA
A school bus carrying pupils of Kings David Junior School in Ndejje, Makindye Ssabagabo Municipality, Wakiso district, was involved in a fatal road crash in Kapchorwa District on Thursday evening.
The crash occurred at about 8:00pm at Chekwatit Village, Kimawa Parish, Kawowo Sub-county, according to the Uganda Police Force.
The bus, registration number UA 108BQ, was transporting pupils who were returning from an educational trip to Sipi Falls.
Traffic Police spokesperson Michael Kananura said police and other emergency responders were at the scene conducting rescue operations and establishing the number of people killed and injured.
“Rescue operations are ongoing, and the exact number of fatalities and injuries has not yet been confirmed,” Kananura said.
He added that more information would be released once the rescue operation and preliminary investigations are completed.
Meanwhile, unverified reports from the scene alleged that the bus had developed mechanical problems during the journey and that pupils had reportedly been asked to disembark several times before continuing with the trip.
Witnesses further claimed that despite concerns over the vehicle’s condition, the driver allegedly insisted that he was in control and proceeded with the journey.
Police had not confirmed the allegations about the reported mechanical faults by press time, and investigations into the cause of the crash were underway.
The accident comes amid continued calls for stricter inspection of school buses and enhanced road safety measures for vehicles transporting learners, especially during educational tours.
Rescue teams remained at the scene by press time as efforts to account for all passengers continued.
