By Ugasite
The Uganda Police Force has issued a public warning about the dangers posed by ongoing severe weather conditions across the country.
In recent months, persistent heavy rains have triggered floods, mudslides, and other tragic incidents, leaving a trail of destruction and loss.
In a statement released on Monday, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kituuma Rusoke emphasized the need for public caution. He urged individuals to avoid flood-prone areas, remain alert, and keep emergency contact numbers for the police and other relevant government agencies readily available.
Rusoke reported that last week alone, authorities recorded multiple fatalities related to adverse weather conditions. Among these was the discovery of an unidentified man’s body floating in the Mpologoma River in Buyemba ‘A’ Village, Lyama Town Council, Budaka District.
“It is suspected that the man was swept away by floodwaters. His remains were transported to Mbale City Mortuary for further investigation,” he said.
On November 25, the body of Julius Ssemambo was found in stagnant water inside an abandoned house in the Lubigi Wetland, Nabweru, Nansana Municipality, Wakiso District. “His remains were also conveyed to the Kampala City Mortuary,” Rusoke stated.
He further recounted a tragic incident on November 27, when a rescue operation along the Pakwach–Nwoya Road turned fatal. Yahaya Hassan, a UNRA engineer, drowned while attempting to rescue passengers from a taxi stranded in the flooded River Tangi.
Additionally, police marine officers recovered the body of a female passenger who had been among those in the ill-fated taxi.
Rusoke also highlighted the recent landslide in Bulambuli District, which buried numerous houses and residents. “So far, 22 bodies have been recovered,” he said, adding that search efforts are ongoing as authorities fear more victims may still be trapped under the debris.