Public intervention saves 73 Lubiri High School students after bus loses control

KAMPALA — Quick intervention by members of the public helped prevent a major accident after a bus carrying 73 Lubiri High School students reportedly lost control in the Cornerstone Plaza area of Rubaga, Kampala.

The students were travelling aboard bus UAQ 079W, operated by Jeju Express Bus Company, for a study tour at the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) in Lugogo when the incident occurred.

Traffic Police spokesperson SP Michael Kananura said the conductor alerted members of the public after the driver reportedly lost control of the bus, prompting residents to intervene.

“The conductor alerted members of the public and, together with the community, they managed to bring the bus to a stop by throwing stones under it,” Kananura said.

He said police responded immediately and established several safety and regulatory violations involving the bus.

According to Kananura, the bus was carrying 73 students instead of the declared 67, while its Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence had expired.

Police also established that the school trip had no clearance from the Ministry of Education and Sports, the bus had no third-party insurance and had not undergone inspection by the Ministry of Works and Transport.

“Fortunately, no injuries were registered,” Kananura said.

He added that the driver, conductor and patron had been detained to assist police with investigations, while police were obtaining a statement from the school’s head teacher.

The incident has renewed concerns over compliance with safety requirements governing school trips and student transportation.

Kananura urged schools and transport operators to ensure that all required licences, insurance, inspections and clearances are obtained before transporting learners.

“We strongly caution all schools to comply with all requirements for school trips and student transportation, regardless of whether the journey is short or long. The safety of our children must always come before convenience,” he said.

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