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Rajiv, son of billionaire tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia died in a car accident this morning
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KAMPALA - Uganda is mourning the tragic death of prominent businessman and rally driver Rajiv Ruparelia, who died in a fatal road accident in the early hours of Saturday morning along the Kampala Southern Bypass. According to Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson, Luke Owoyesigyire, the accident occurred at 1:54 a.m. at the Busabala Flyover in Makindye-Ssabagabo, Wakiso District.
"We regret to report a tragic single fatal crash involving a Nissan GTR (registration number UAT 638L). The vehicle overturned and caught fire after hitting temporary pavements at the roundabout. The driver, Mr. Rajiv Ruparelia (35), died at the scene," said Owoyesigyire in an official police statement.
Eyewitnesses described a horrific scene, with the car engulfed in flames and thick smoke rising into the night sky. By the time emergency responders arrived, the high-performance vehicle had been reduced to scrap metal.
Video footage circulating on social media captured the fiery wreckage, drawing widespread public attention and an outpouring of grief from across the country.
Police noted that preliminary findings suggest the driver lost control of the vehicle, though the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation. The Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety is leading the inquiry, and further updates will be shared as investigations progress.
The news has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s business and motorsport communities. Rajiv, son of billionaire tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia, was not only an emerging business leader but also an influential figure in rally sport and philanthropy. He served as a patron of the CMC Rally Team and was widely known for his energetic presence both on and off the track.
Wreckage of the car Rajiv was driving
Just hours before the accident, Rajiv had posted a heartfelt photo of his child on social media, a tender moment that has since gone viral, stirring an emotional response from followers.
Condolences have poured in from all sectors of society, including business leaders, political figures, sports enthusiasts, and the general public. Many have taken to social media to express their grief and pay tribute to his legacy.
“With deep sadness and shock, I share the news of the passing of our friend and rally driver Rajiv Ruparelia. He will be greatly missed,” read a statement shared by members of Uganda’s motorsport fraternity.
Police have extended their deepest sympathies to the Ruparelia family, urging the public to await the official report while refraining from spreading unverified information.
Rajiv Ruparelia is remembered not only for his speed on the track but for his generosity, business acumen, and commitment to uplifting others. Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family.
Torch Media Africa
