569 vehicles impounded as police step up road safety enforcement

[Da Dona]

Traffic Police have impounded 569 vehicles across Uganda in ongoing road safety operations targeting vehicles and drivers considered non-compliant with traffic and safety regulations.

The enforcement is being carried out through several operations, including Operation Ganyegenya, which targets Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) operating in dangerous mechanical conditions.

Now in its 27th day, Operation Ganyegenya saw 130 vehicles impounded last week, bringing the total number of vehicles impounded under the operation to 499.

According to the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety spokesperson, SP Michael Kananura, 369 of the 499 vehicles have undergone mechanical inspection. Of these, 328 (88.9 per cent) failed, while 42 (11.1 per cent) passed.

Of the 65 vehicles that were repaired and presented for re-inspection, 39 passed while 26 failed again.

Police say the current 100-day period is a grace period for taxi operators to voluntarily repair their vehicles. Once it expires, enforcement will be intensified, with non-compliant operators facing arrest and prosecution.

Police are also extending some operations into the night to catch operators who attempt to avoid daytime checkpoints.

Under Operation Tekeleza Sheria, a joint operation between the Uganda Police Force and the UPDF Military Police Brigade, another 70 vehicles have been impounded.

The operation targets vehicles fitted with illegal sirens or flashing lights, vehicles with missing or concealed number plates, and security personnel violating traffic regulations.

Seven drivers arrested under the operation have so far appeared in court. Six were convicted while one was remanded, with other cases awaiting sanctioning by Regional State Attorneys.

Meanwhile, Operation Babala Salama, conducted by Police together with the Ministry of Works and Transport, is focusing on licensing compliance and heavy vehicles, including Sinotruks.

Operators of heavy vehicles have been given 60 days to voluntarily present their trucks for inspection before full enforcement begins.

So far, 148 heavy vehicles have been inspected. Of these, 107 passed while 41 failed and were deregistered.

Police have also warned school bus operators that vehicles transporting learners must have valid inspection reports, while drivers must possess the required badges.

Authorities say vehicles found to be unsafe will be removed from the road immediately.

For motorists and passengers, the ongoing operations mean more checks on public roads, particularly for the mechanical condition of vehicles, licensing and compliance with traffic regulations.

Daily Monitor UG​