Traffic Police Launch Probe into Deadly School Bus Crash

A joint team of investigators from the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has launched investigations into the fatal school bus crash in Kapchorwa District that claimed more than 24 lives. 

The crash occurred at about 8:00 p.m. on Thursday in Chekwatit Village when a bus transporting pupils of St. David Junior School, Masajja, overturned after the driver reportedly lost control. Police said the bus struck a large rock before overturning. 

Although preliminary findings suggest a possible mechanical failure, Police Spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said investigations are still ongoing and warned the public against relying on unverified information circulating on social media. He said several conflicting accounts have emerged since the tragedy, and these will be addressed in a comprehensive investigation report once inquiries are complete. 

Among the false claims, Rusoke said, was that the bus driver survived the crash and fled the scene, prompting anxious families to demand his arrest. He clarified that the driver died in the accident and was among the victims whose bodies were initially difficult to identify. He was buried on Saturday. 

Rusoke said investigators are examining several aspects of the tragedy but declined to disclose specific lines of inquiry. 

“I know you are asking about the line of inquiry on the St. David’s crash. Let us give the investigators an opportunity because their freedom of action is very wide. I can’t sit here and say this or that, but a report will soon come out, and the general public will know the outcome,” Rusoke said. 

 

The investigation is also focusing on Liberty Bus Company. Detectives are examining the maintenance history and roadworthiness of the bus, inspection records, passenger capacity, and the qualifications and experience of the deceased driver. 

Although the driver died in the crash, investigators expect the company to provide documentation regarding his driving licence, training and familiarity with the route. Meanwhile, police have stepped up enforcement of the nationwide suspension of school trips and educational excursions announced after the Kapchorwa tragedy. 


Following the crash, the government suspended all school trips and educational excursions across Uganda. The Ministry of Education and Sports also announced a series of reforms aimed at improving the safety of school transport, including mandatory vehicle inspections, stricter vetting of drivers and tighter regulation of transport operators used by schools.