By Okidi Patrick
KOLE, UGANDA — A dark cloud has hung over Kole District after a devastating road traffic accident along the busy Lira–Kamdini Highway claimed the lives of three people on Tuesday evening.
The territorial police in Kole District have launched a comprehensive investigation into the fatal crash, which occurred on May 19, 2026, at around 7:10 PM at the notorious Kulu Yago spot.
Head-On Collision
According to preliminary findings released by the police, a Nissan Patrol, registration number UBA 049CV, was traveling from Lira heading toward Kamdini when it reportedly collided head-on with an oncoming motorcycle.
The motorcycle, a Boxer Bajaj with registration number UFV 110A, was traveling from the Kamdini side toward Lira. At the time of the impact, it was carrying three occupants.
The force of the collision was so severe that all three individuals on the motorcycle suffered catastrophic injuries and died on the spot. By press time, the exact identities of the deceased victims had not yet been established.
Driver Flees the Scene
In the chaotic aftermath of the crash, the driver of the Nissan Patrol reportedly abandoned the vehicle and fled the scene into the night. Police have confirmed that the suspect is currently on the run, and a manhunt has been launched to track down and arrest them to aid ongoing investigations.
The scene of the crime was visited and documented by the Kole District Traffic Officer, Inspector of Police (IP) Wilson Tootika, alongside a team of first responders.
Investigations Underway
The bodies of the three victims were carefully retrieved and conveyed to the Lira Regional Referral Hospital mortuary, where they await postmortem examinations and formal identification by their grieving relatives.
Both the wreckage of the motorcycle and the impounded Nissan Patrol were towed away and are currently parked at the Kole Central Police Station yard, awaiting a mandatory mechanical inspection by the Inspector of Vehicles (IOV).
Police Call for Caution
Confirming the tragedy, the North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson, Superintendent of Police (SP) Patrick Jimmy Okema, urged the runaway driver to voluntarily hand themselves over to the nearest police station.
“We call upon the driver involved in this unfortunate accident to report to the police immediately to assist with our inquiries,” SP Okema said. “We also strongly urge all road users to exercise maximum caution, adhere strictly to speed limits, and avoid reckless overtaking, particularly during night hours when visibility is poor.”
The regional police leadership extended their deepest condolences to the bereaved families, promising that a thorough forensic investigation will be conducted to ensure that justice is served.
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