Justice Minister Norbert Mao has clarified that he was not involved in a road accident reported in Bombo on Sunday evening, explaining that he only stopped to assist victims after witnessing the crash.
In a statement issued on Sunday night, Mao said he had received numerous calls expressing concern about his wellbeing following the incident along the Kampala–Gulu highway in Kalule, Bombo, Luweero District.
He confirmed that the crash involved a head-on collision between a lorry and a security vehicle escorting Minister of State for Defence and Veterans Affairs Huda Oleru.
“I can confirm that there was a head on collision between a lorry and a security vehicle, a pickup escorting Honourable Huda Oleru," he said. "None of my vehicles was involved but we witnessed the accident and stopped to help the victims.”
Mao said he and his security team, together with other motorists and residents, worked to free the injured soldiers from the wreckage.
“With the help of other travelers and locals, we rescued the escorts and managed to send the injured to Bombo Military Hospital,” he said.
He added that one soldier died instantly at the scene, while another died upon arrival at the hospital.
“We went to Bombo Hospital and confirmed that another soldier had died on arrival. Others are receiving treatment,” the minister said.
Mao expressed gratitude to those who helped at the scene and confirmed that Defence Minister Jacob Oboth Oboth instructed medical teams to respond immediately.
He said, “I spoke to Defence Minister Oboth Oboth who instructed the medical teams from Bombo to respond. I also spoke to Hon. Huda Oleru. Her vehicle was not affected by the accident.”
He sent condolences to the families of the two deceased soldiers and wished the injured a quick recovery.