By Robert Segawa
A total of 84 people were arrested during weekend operations targeting drunk driving and are set to appear in court today to face various charges related to violations of traffic and road safety regulations.
According to traffic police, the suspects were apprehended during operations conducted on Friday night across the Kampala Metropolitan area. They are currently being held at various police stations.
The arrests were made in several locations, with 18 suspects detained in Katwe, 19 at Jinja Road, 12 in Kawempe and Nansana respectively, 14 in Old Kampala, and 9 at the Central Police Station in Kampala.
Traffic Police spokesperson Michael Kananura confirmed that all suspects will be arraigned in different courts by the end of the day. He emphasized that this is part of renewed efforts to combat drunk driving on Ugandan roads.
“All the detained drivers have recorded statements and had their fingerprints taken,” Kananura said. “Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offense, ranking fifth among the leading traffic violations, following overspeeding, lack of helmets, absence of child restraints, and failure to wear seat belts.”
He added, “When we arrest you for drunk driving, we keep you in custody until you’re sober.”
Meanwhile, motorists are awaiting the rollout of the new Express Penalty Scheme under revised traffic regulations being developed by the Ministry of Works and Transport. These reforms are aimed at addressing violations at traffic lights, overspeeding, and other offenses that contribute significantly to road accidents.
Under the proposed changes, violators of speed limits will face fines ranging from Shs 200,000 to Shs 600,000. Additionally, children under 12 years will be prohibited from sitting in the front seat, and those under 5 years must be secured in child restraint seats in the back.
Kananura also noted that riders of tricycles (locally known as tuku tuks) will be required to wear crash helmets with properly fastened straps as part of mandatory safety measures.
