By Mike Rwothomio 

A yellow Isuzu bus (Reg. No. UBD216R) operated by Nile Star Bus Company was engulfed in flames late last night at Oyabo, Madi-Okollo District, along the Arua-Nebbi Highway.

The fire incident, reported at approximately 22:30 hours on 02 June 2025, saw a swift evacuation of all passengers, with no injuries reported.

According to West Nile Regional Police Spokesperson SP Collins Asea, the fire originated at the rear wheels of the bus.

Boda boda riders raised the alarm, alerting the driver to the blaze.

"The driver promptly stopped the vehicle amidst the flames and successfully evacuated all passengers and their luggage to safety," Asea stated in the early hours of 03 June 2025.

Asea added that, Officers commanded by the District Police Commander (DPC) responded to the scene, securing the area and ensuring the safety of passengers and their belongings.

Arrangements are underway to transfer passengers to another bus to continue their journey

The incident, logged under Traffic and Safety Department Reference TSD: 02/02/06/2025, underscores the critical need for enhanced fire and rescue services in the West Nile region.

This marks the second bus fire in the area within two weeks, following a devastating incident in Alwi Sub-County, Pakwach District, where a Baby Coach bus was destroyed after colliding with a fuel tanker.

SP Asea urged motorists to prioritize regular vehicle maintenance to prevent such incidents, emphasizing that "passenger safety remains our top priority."

The region currently relies on a single fire brigade unit stationed in Arua City, with a promised fire brigade unit for Greater Nebbi and Madi-Okollo yet to be operational.

Authorities are calling for the urgent deployment of the proposed Nebbi fire brigade unit to bolster emergency response capabilities in the region.

 Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa