Uganda: Taxis impounded in highway safety operation

Traffic police and Ministry of Transport officials in Uganda have launched a crackdown on commuter taxis operating illegally on the Kampala-Gulu Highway. During a joint operation last week, numerous taxis were impounded for failing to meet safety standards, including the absence of a mandatory blue strip and the illegal carriage of luggage on their roofs.

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We have seen a rise in these vehicles on our roads. They provide taxi services without meeting the required standards. In addition to causing fatal accidents, they are implicated in robberies.

The operation, led by ACP Norman Musinga, Deputy Director of Traffic and Road Safety, focused on identifying and removing unqualified drivers and vehicles in dangerous mechanical condition. Allan Ssempebwa, Communications Officer at the Ministry of Works and Transport, highlighted the prevalence of "drones" – commuter taxis commonly known by that name – that provide services without meeting required standards. He stated these vehicles are not only a cause of fatal accidents but are also implicated in robberies, emphasizing that the blue stripe is a prerequisite for passenger transport vehicles.

SP Michael Kananura, the Traffic Police Spokesperson, noted that many arrested drivers were found with passengers and luggage on top of their vehicles, a direct violation of public service vehicle regulations. The enforcement also extended to buses and heavy trucks to ensure compliance with safety standards. At least 14 drivers were arrested for offenses including speeding, overloading, driving without permits, operating mechanically defective vehicles, and violating route charts.

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Some of those we are impounding are found without blue stripes, yet it is a prerequisite that all vehicles transporting passengers should be identified with a blue stripe. Such practices will not be tolerated.

These intensified operations come amid ongoing concerns about Uganda's road safety record. According to the annual traffic police report, the country recorded 26,044 road crashes in 2025, a 3.7 percent increase from the previous year. The surprise checks are set to continue on major highways, with motorists urged to ensure their vehicles and documents comply with the law. Suspects are being held at Matugga Police Station pending court appearances.

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He noted that under PSV regulations, this is a violation of traffic laws.