news 21 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Police Impound Over 560 Vehicles in Intensified Road Safety Crackdown
Ugandan authorities have impounded 569 vehicles nationwide as part of a comprehensive road safety campaign. The operations, targeting public service vehicles, illegal modifications, and licensing compliance, aim to enhance discipline and reduce accidents on public roads. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/over-560-vehicles-impounded-as-road-safety-operations-intensify-5603368
In a significant push to enhance road safety across Uganda, traffic police have impounded a total of 569 vehicles through various enforcement operations. These initiatives are designed to curb road accidents and instill greater discipline among public transport operators.
The primary operation, “Ganyegenya,” specifically targets Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) found to be in dangerous mechanical conditions. Now in its 27th day, this crackdown alone has led to the impounding of 499 vehicles. A recent mechanical inspection of 369 of these vehicles revealed a startling failure rate, with nearly 89% not meeting safety standards. Only 42 vehicles passed the initial inspection, and a further 26 failed even after attempting repairs.
SP Michael Kananura, spokesperson for the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, emphasized that the current 100-day period is a grace window for vehicle owners to make necessary repairs. He warned that after this period, intensified enforcement, including arrests and prosecutions, will commence. To catch errant operators, police are extending their operations into nighttime hours.
Separately, “Operation Tekeleza Sheria,” a collaboration between Uganda Police and UPDF Military Police, has resulted in the impoundment of an additional 70 vehicles. This operation focuses on illegal vehicle modifications such as unauthorized sirens, flashing lights, hidden number plates, and traffic violations by security personnel. Seven drivers have already faced court, with six convicted.
Another initiative, “Operation Babala Salama,” a joint effort with the Ministry of Works and Transport, is addressing licensing and the condition of heavy vehicles, including Sinotruks. Operators have a 60-day window to voluntarily present their trucks for inspection. Despite this, inspection turnout has been low, with 41 out of 148 inspected heavy vehicles failing and being deregistered.
Traffic police also issued a direct warning to school bus operators, mandating that all vehicles carrying learners must have valid inspection reports and drivers must possess the correct badges. Unsafe school vehicles will be immediately removed from service to ensure the safety of children.