By Mike Rwothomio

ARUA, May 16, 2025 – A severe road traffic incident occurred at approximately 2:00 p.m. today along the Arua-Nebbi Road in Kuluva, Arua District, involving two heavy vehicles. 

The crash involved a yellow Scania semi-truck (registration UBD 852W / UBD 833X) and a "Drone" vehicle, both driven by unidentified drivers.

The West Nile regional Police Spokesperson SP Collins Asea confirmed the tragedy in a statement.

Asea added that, Preliminary investigations indicate both vehicles were traveling from Nebbi toward Arua when the trailer detached from the Scania’s tractor, veered backward, and collided with the "Drone" vehicle following closely behind.

The impact left the "Drone" driver trapped beneath the semi-truck, with rescue operations ongoing at the scene.

Emergency response teams are working to free the trapped driver, and traffic police are investigating the cause of the trailer detachment.

Authorities are urging motorists to exercise caution and adhere to traffic regulations to prevent similar incidents.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

According to the Uganda Police Annual Crime Report for 2024, road traffic crashes claimed 4,123 lives and injured 12,346 individuals nationwide. 

Heavy vehicles, including trucks, were involved in 18% of fatal crashes, with common causes including mechanical failure, reckless driving, and overloading. Authorities continue to emphasize road safety compliance to reduce such incidents.

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa