By Hannah Marion Namukasa
Tragedy struck in Jija City on Sunday evening when a taxi en route to Mbale burst into flames shortly after departing from the taxi park, claiming the lives of two passengers. The incident occurred near the junction of Clive Road East and Iganga Road, stunning eyewitnesses who recounted the chaotic scene.
Eyewitness Mr. James Okello described the taxi, bearing Reg No UBA 463V and carrying approximately 12 passengers, as moving erratically with an abnormal engine sound just moments before it caught fire. “Barely 30 seconds after passing me, the taxi stopped abruptly,” Okello stated. “The driver hurriedly got out as flames engulfed the vehicle. Attempts to rescue passengers were made, but tragically, two individuals lost their lives on the spot.”
Local community leader Mr. Vine Ssemaganda expressed dismay over the incident, criticizing the driver for reportedly abandoning the vehicle without ensuring passengers could safely disembark. He emphasized the need for responsible vehicle maintenance and operation to prevent such tragedies.
In defense of the driver, boda boda rider Mr. Muzamil Mugodha suggested that vehicle owners sometimes neglect necessary repairs despite warnings about their vehicles’ condition.
Swift response from the Police fire brigade, under the leadership of Jinja District Police Commander Mr. Innocent Mubangizi, contained the blaze. Police detectives are now investigating the cause of the fire, probing whether mechanical issues or other factors contributed to the fatal accident.
