Nsangi Police are investigating an accident that claimed the lives of two pilgrims in the early hours of Thursday morning.
The incident, which took place at St. Lawrence Nakati along the Kampala-Masaka highway, resulted in the death of Olive Nabakooza and Specioza Nambi, both hailing from Makondo Parish in Masaka Diocese.
Luke Owoyesigyire, the Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Spokesperson, says that preliminary reports indicate that the accident happened around 3:00 AM when a UAL 881Z Isuzu bus belonging to Perfect Company, lost control while descending a slope.
The bus, travelling from the Nsangi direction, veered off its lane and tragically collided with Nabakooza and Nambi, who were making their way to participate in the upcoming Martyrs Day celebrations scheduled for June 3, 2023, in Namugongo.
“Upon receiving the distress call, the Kyengera Police Station promptly responded to the scene, accompanied by officers from the Nsangi Police Station and the Traffic Team from Kyengera. Immediate action was taken, and the bodies of the deceased were respectfully transported to Mulago City Mortuary for postmortem examinations,” he said in a statement.
He adds that “the loss of Nabakooza Oliva and Nambi Specioza is a heartbreaking blow, particularly as they were on their way to join thousands of fellow faithful in commemorating the Martyrs Day celebrations, a significant event in the calendar of our beloved country.
Their untimely demise is a profound loss for their families and loved ones and the wider community.”
He says that the bus has remained at the accident site, awaiting assistance from a professional breakdown service for its removal.
The police are currently conducting inquiries to establish the full details and circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.
Police have appealed to all road users to exercise utmost caution, obey traffic rules and regulations, and prioritize road safety to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.
“We also urge the public to provide support and solace to the affected families during this incredibly challenging time,” the statement said.