Mbarara Central Police Station Yard Overflowing With Unclaimed Vehicle Wreckages

Mbarara Central Police Station is currently grappling with severe space constraints as more than 50 vehicle wreckages and impounded cars accumulate within its grounds. The vehicles, largely linked to traffic accidents and pending court cases, have caused such significant congestion that some damaged cars now line an adjacent road.

A visit to the station reveals a yard filled with the remains of road crashes, with grass growing around several long-abandoned vehicles. According to Rwizi Regional Police Spokesperson Samson Kasasira, the release of vehicles held as exhibits is governed by strict legal procedures designed to protect evidence and ensure property returns to its rightful owner.

Kasasira noted that owners must provide sufficient proof of ownership and clear documentation before any vehicle can be released. While some cars can be reclaimed within a day if requirements are met, others remain stranded due to ongoing legal proceedings or because owners have passed away or disappeared without their families following up.

However, lawyer Moses Nuwagaba argued that administrative delays and prolonged court processes often keep vehicles in custody longer than necessary. Nuwagaba questioned why physical cars must occupy police yards for extended periods when evidence can be adequately presented to court using photographs, videos, and documentary records.

To combat the mounting congestion, Kasasira stated that police have previously sought legal guidance to evaluate long-abandoned exhibits for possible disposal through public auctions in consultation with the judiciary.

Motorists whose vehicles remain at the station are advised to check the status of their cases, consult investigating officers, and present valid ownership documents to initiate the recovery process.

For more details on this story, read the full report on Nile Post.