At least 15 people were injured in a road accident that occurred on Wednesday afternoon at Economic village in Ntoroko District, along the Fort Portal–Bundibugyo road.
According to Rwenzori West regional police spokesperson Vincent Twesige, the crash happened at around 12:30 p.m. and involved a Toyota Hiace taxi, registration number UBE 166H, which was travelling from Kasese to Bundibugyo.
Twesige said the taxi lost control at a sharp corner after its brakes failed, causing it to overturn into a trench. The vehicle also damaged a telecommunications pole and a nearby semi-permanent house before coming to a stop.
Police identified the injured as Oliver Masika and her two-year-old daughter Ruth Mbireka, Regina Ntungu, Margaret Billy, Phenahance Besigye, Ruth Karibanda, Levina Kabugho, Reuben Namanya, Gloria Musihubura, and Prayer Masiika.
Others included Robina Katusabe, Carfort Hasigye, Phiona Masiika, and an elderly man only identified as Amosi. All the victims were rushed to Karugutu health centre IV in Ntoroko for medical treatment.
Twesige said police have launched a manhunt for the taxi driver, who fled the scene shortly after the crash.
Police have once again urged public transport operators to ensure regular vehicle maintenance and observe speed limits, especially along the winding mountainous sections of the Fort Portal–Bundibugyo highway, which remain prone to accidents.
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