Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-04-02 15:33:22
During this year’s Easter holiday period, at least 91 people lost their lives in road crashes and crime incidents, according to police statistics. The tragic events took place between March 28th (Holy Thursday) and April 1st (Easter Monday), claiming 46 lives in crime incidents and 45 in road crashes.
Michael Kananura, the traffic police spokesperson, revealed that the road crashes resulted in the deaths of 22 motorcycle riders, 10 passengers, and 5 passengers on motorcycles. Additionally, 120 individuals suffered injuries in the road accidents, with the highest number of incidents reported in the Kampala metropolitan area, Albertine, and Wamala regions.
Statistics from both the police and civil society studies, such as Safe Way Right Way (SWRW), consistently highlight the risks faced by motorcycle riders and passengers due to the lack of crash helmets. Fred Enanga, the police spokesperson, reported that 46 individuals lost their lives due to mob justice, aggravated robbery, and domestic violence during the Easter holidays. To address these crimes, the police have apprehended 52 suspects connected to the incidents.
Enanga pointed out that a total of 62 reportable crimes were recorded during the Easter period, an increase from the previous year’s 44 incidents. Among these crimes, 10 were murders resulting from mob action, 9 from aggravated robbery, 4 from domestic violence, and 8 from other causes. Operations were conducted in areas like Gombe and Matugga, leading to the arrest of 20 suspects on Good Friday. In Moroto district, security was heightened to prevent potential Turkana attacks based on intelligence reports.
Kananura emphasized that traffic police operations against violators will continue on various roads, with 786 individuals arrested for driving with invalid licenses during Easter week. Of those arrested, 89 had no driving licenses, 435 possessed expired licenses, 257 held out-of-class licenses, and 5 were found with forged licenses. All offenders were charged in court for their violations.
Overall, the Easter holiday period was marred by tragic incidents resulting in the loss of 91 lives. The authorities have taken steps to address the issues of road safety and crime prevention, including increased patrols and arrests of suspects. However, it is crucial for both authorities and the public to work together to create safer environments and prevent further loss of life in the future.
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