Written By |
By Our Reporter
Bushenyi
Bushenyi District Police are investigating two fatal road accidents that occurred along the Mbarara–Ishaka Highway within a span of two days, highlighting ongoing safety concerns on the busy route.
Motorcyclists killed at Kitwe trading centre
On Monday night, October 6, at around 11:00 p.m., a Canter truck (Reg. No. UBB 270E) traveling from Bushenyi toward Mbarara reportedly swerved to avoid a pothole and collided head-on with a Bajaj motorcycle (Reg. No. UDY 639L) coming from the opposite direction. Both motorcycle riders, identified as Twesigye Abel and Tumwesigye Simon, died on the spot.
One of the deceased, Twesigye Abel, was a serving Councillor III in the Ibaare Sub-county Council. Both victims were residents of Kagari Village, Ibaare Sub-county, in Bushenyi District. The truck driver fled the scene. Both vehicles were impounded at Bushenyi Police Station as investigations continue, while the bodies were taken to Kitagata Hospital for post-mortem examinations.
Bushenyi Police Station Accident – October 3
A separate accident occurred on Friday, October 3, near Bushenyi Police Station when a lorry transporting cattle collided with a boda boda motorcycle, killing the rider on the spot.
The motorcycle was carrying three passengers, all of whom survived with injuries. The lorry driver reportedly lost control while trying to avoid a pothole and fled the scene.
The vehicle was later intercepted by Rubirizi Police and is currently parked at Rubirizi Police Station as investigations continue.
Police Warn Over Poor Road Conditions
Police have cautioned motorists about the deteriorating state of the Mbarara–Ishaka Highway, citing potholes and narrow road sections as major contributors to recent accidents.
Since the beginning of 2025, several fatalities have been recorded along this stretch due to similar causes.
Local residents have repeatedly petitioned the Ministry of Works and Transport to rehabilitate the highway. However, the government is yet to announce concrete plans for road maintenance.
The Greater Bushenyi sub-region acting police spokesperson, SP Apollo Tayebwa, urged all road users to exercise caution. “Drivers should reduce speed, avoid overtaking in dangerous areas, and remain vigilant for potholes. Pedestrians and cyclists should use designated pathways and wear visible clothing,” SP Tayebwa said.
Police have also appealed to the public to share any information that could aid in the ongoing investigations. “Cooperation from the public is crucial to ensure justice for the victims and improve road safety in the district,” SP Tayebwa added.
Torch Media Africa