A tragic Buyende road crash claimed five lives when a vehicle veered off the Kamuli–Irundu Road and plunged into a water-filled trench near Buyumba Trading Centre. The incident happened around 8 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2025. A Toyota Harrier with registration number UBD 160F was returning from Iyingo Landing Site, heading toward Irundu.
Police suspect drunk driving caused the crash. According to Busoga North Regional Police Spokesperson ASP Michael Kasadha, the vehicle lost control at a slightly elevated part of the road. It then skidded and fell into a roadside trench. The impact killed all five occupants instantly.
“We lost five young lives in an avoidable tragedy,” Kasadha said. “It’s time we act decisively against impaired driving.”
The deceased include Masudi Sebuliba (32), Ayubu Mua (29), and Ben Ndikola (24) from Kaliro Town Council. Wilberforce Wamuseke (31) from Gumpi and Evelyn Kyalisima (25) from Lyantonde District also lost their lives.
Traffic officers quickly arrived at the scene. They documented evidence, assessed the crash, and handed over the bodies to relatives for burial. Police towed the wreckage to Kagulu Police Station for further inspection. This step will determine if mechanical issues contributed to the crash.
ASP Kasadha emphasized the deadly impact of driving under the influence. He explained that alcohol slows reaction time, clouds judgment, and increases accident risk. “Drivers must understand that alcohol puts everyone in danger,” he stressed.
This Buyende road crash adds to a growing number of fatal accidents across Uganda. While authorities continue to raise awareness about road safety, many drivers still ignore basic traffic rules. Roads like the Kamuli–Irundu route present extra hazards due to poor lighting and narrow shoulders. When alcohol is involved, the results can be catastrophic.
Although police suspect alcohol played the main role, they are still investigating. Officers will consider speed, mechanical condition, and road environment to complete their findings. However, current evidence points to reckless driving as the central cause.
In response, local leaders have called for stronger road safety enforcement. They suggested increasing patrols, erecting clear signage, and launching educational campaigns. These efforts, they believe, will reduce incidents like the one in Buyende.
Uganda faces a national challenge with road safety. According to the Uganda Police Annual Crime Report, over 4,000 people die in road accidents each year, with drunk driving being one of the top causes. As a result, law enforcement agencies continue urging drivers to prioritize safety and responsibility.
To understand how unsafe roads affect broader public welfare, read about past violence in Mukono North and the government’s steps to improve access through braille ballots.
As Buyende mourns, this Buyende road crash stands as a painful reminder of the cost of negligence. Driving demands discipline, focus, and respect for life. With a national commitment to responsible driving, Uganda can prevent more families from experiencing such heartbreak.
