By Alfred Opio
A tragic road crash has claimed the life of a student and left dozens injured in Budaka District after a truck transporting students for football games overturned.
The accident, which police have classified as a single fatal crash, occurred at around 9:30 a.m. on March 24, 2026, at Jami Mailo Nine along the Mbale–Tirinyi Road. The vehicle involved, registration number UAP 443Z, an Isuzu Elf (commonly referred to as a Fuso truck), was carrying students of IKI-IKI Secondary School who were heading to Jami Seed Secondary School for inter-school games.
According to preliminary police reports, the driver, Mutamu Ahamada allegedly diverted from the main route and used a feeder road to access Jami Mailo Nine. While attempting to rejoin the main road, the truck reportedly lost control and overturned, leading to the fatal incident.
The deceased has been identified as Babirye Linda, a 17-year-old Senior Two student at IKI-IKI Secondary School and a resident of Kadenghe Village in Iki-Iki Sub-county. Her death has cast a dark cloud over the school community and the district at large.
Police further indicated that a total of 41 students were on board at the time of the crash, including 12 girls and 26 boys whose ages are yet to be officially confirmed. In addition, one cook and two askaris were also part of the ill-fated journey. Many of the victims sustained injuries ranging from minor to critical.
All the injured were rushed to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital , where they are currently receiving treatment. Medical personnel at the facility confirmed receiving a large number of casualties and are working to stabilize them.
A team of officers from Budaka Police Station, led by the District Police Commander and the District Traffic Officer Talunga Topista , swiftly visited the scene to document evidence and coordinate rescue efforts. The wreckage of the truck was later towed to Budaka Police Yard pending inspection by the Inspector of Vehicles.
The driver is currently in police custody as investigations into the cause of the accident continue. Authorities have not ruled out negligence but have assured the public that thorough inquiries are underway.
Speaking on the incident, Bukedi North Police spokesperson Wilfred Kyempasa confirmed the details and urged drivers to exercise caution, especially when transporting students.
❝ “We urge all drivers to exercise maximum caution, especially when transporting students. Using unsuitable routes and overloading vehicles puts lives at great risk.” ❞
— ASP Wilfred Kyempasa
The incident has once again raised concerns about the safety of students during transportation for co-curricular activities, with local leaders and residents calling for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations.
As investigations continue, the community of Iki-Iki and the wider Budaka District mourn the loss of a young life while praying for the recovery of those injured in the crash.
