Police in Jinja are searching for the driver of an ambulance who dangerously sped from Iganga to Jinja, defying orders to stop at a checkpoint before abandoning the vehicle at Wanyange.
According to Traffic Police Spokesperson Michael Kananura, the ambulance, registration number UBR 148W, was flagged down at Kakira checkpoint but the driver refused to comply. Authorities later intercepted the vehicle at Wanyange, where the driver fled, leaving behind 10 occupants and a deceased person on board.
The stranded passengers managed to hire another vehicle to continue their journey, while the ambulance was impounded and is currently being held at Jinja Central Police Station.
Police have vowed to apprehend the driver, who will face charges of reckless driving and misuse of an emergency vehicle.
Kananura emphasised that ambulances are strictly meant for emergency medical transportation, not for claiming the right of way or carrying deceased individuals.
“We urge all drivers to exercise caution and respect the intended purpose of ambulances,” Kananura stated.
Authorities have warned that misuse of emergency vehicles will not be tolerated and vowed to intensify enforcement against reckless driving on major highways.