Karimojong drink to float a boat after beer truck overturns
It was the day to drink enouigh to float a boat and some could be seen skunk drunk within hours.
Chaos erupted in Kotido town when a lorry loaded with crates of beer overturned while navigating a turn on the town's main road on September 4.
The accident occurred as the truck was en route to the Karamoja Cultural Event in Karenga District. It quickly attracted a crowd of residents who seized the opportunity to indulge in the free alcohol.
According to witnesses, the accident happened because the driver of Fuso lorry UBP 478C failed to slow down while making a sharp turn, causing the vehicle to tilt and eventually flip over.
The impact scattered crates of beer across the road, prompting nearby residents to descend on the scene and help themselves to the spilled cargo.
Christine Nachap, a resident who witnessed the accident, blamed the driver for not taking proper precautions.
"The driver was going too fast for the turn, and that's why the truck flipped," she said.
Another resident, Patrick Lemu, expressed his joy at the unexpected windfall.
"We are happy to get free beer. We celebrate the accident because it brought us something to enjoy," said.
It was the day to drink enouigh to float a boat and some could be seen skunk drunk within hours.
In Uganda, it is not uncommon for residents to take advantage of accidents involving lorries carrying valuable goods.
This incident was no exception, with the crowd quickly gathering to partake in the free beverages before authorities could arrive.
Karamoja Police spokesperson Mike Longole confirmed the incident and stated that the police were dispatched as soon as they received reports of the accident.
"We ensured the safety of the driver and dispersed the crowd that had gathered to drink the beer," Longole said.
The driver of the lorry was reported to be unharmed, though shaken by the unexpected turn of events.
