Speeding car kills Police constable at Katakwi checkpoint

KATAKWI - A Police constable has been killed in a road crash after a speeding vehicle rammed into a traffic checkpoint in Katakwi district on Sunday, February 15, 2026, evening.

According to Kyoga East Regional Police Commander Ibrahim Saiga, the fatal incident occurred at about 8:00pm at Getom trading centre on the Soroti–Moroto road.

Saiga said a Toyota Mark X, registration number UBR 151S, travelling from Soroti towards Moroto, reportedly hit a road sign, lost control and veered off the road.

The vehicle then rammed into a parked motorcycle, a Bajaj Auto Boxer (registration UEM 232F), before striking officers who were on duty.

The deceased, Enock Kirubi, attached to the Teso Anti Stock Theft Unit sector, died instantly at the scene. Another officer sustained serious injuries and was rushed to Katakwi General Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.

“The Police force conveys its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased officer and wishes the injured officer a quick recovery,” Saiga said.

Police arrested the driver, whose identity had not yet been disclosed by press time, and he is being held at Katakwi Central Police Station to assist with investigations.

Authorities have urged motorists to observe traffic regulations, slow down when approaching checkpoints and exercise caution on the road.

Rising road crash concern

Traffic Police statistics show that careless overtaking and speeding were the leading causes of road crashes in 2024, accounting for 44.5% of all accidents. Vulnerable road users, including motorcyclists, pedestrians and cyclists, made up 84% of road traffic deaths.

The 2024 annual report recorded 25,107 crashes, resulting in 25,808 casualties, a 4.4% increase from 2023. Fatalities rose by 7% to 5,144 deaths.

The 2025 annual traffic report is yet to be released.