Members of the public in Rubaga, Kampala, intervened to stop a bus carrying 73 Lubiri High School students after it reportedly lost control while transporting them for a study tour at the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) showgrounds in Lugogo.
According to police spokesperson Michael Kananura, the incident happened around Cornerstone Plaza, where the bus, registration number UAQ 079W, belonging to Jeju Express Bus Company, reportedly lost control.
Kananura said the conductor alerted members of the public, who joined the effort to stop the bus by throwing stones under it.
No injuries were reported.
Police officers who responded to the incident found that the bus was carrying 73 students, although it was supposed to carry 67.
Police also found that the vehicle had an expired public service vehicle (PSV) licence, lacked clearance from the Ministry of Education and Sports, had no third-party insurance and had not been inspected by the Ministry of Works and Transport.
The driver, conductor and patron were detained to assist with investigations, while police obtained a statement from the school’s head teacher.
Kananura urged schools to ensure that all requirements governing school trips and student transportation are met before allowing students to travel.
He said the incident underscores the need for schools to prioritise student safety regardless of the distance or duration of a journey.
“The safety of our children must always come before convenience,” Kananura said.
