Fuel Tanker Crashes into River Nile at Karuma Bridge, Police launched search

fuel truck travelling to Gulu lost control at Karuma bridge on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, plunging into the River Nile.

The Albertine North Region's marine experts have launched a search & recovery operation for the fuel tanker and victims.

Solomon Mugisha, Acting Police PRO for Albertine North, said the truck is trapped under rocks, making recovery tough without specialized equipment. Police confirmed the tanker was later seen floating about 4km from the crash site.

The incident happened around 2:00am as the tanker traveled from Kampala to Gulu. Karuma, 260km north of Kampala, connects the capital to cities like Gulu, Lira, and Arua known for its sharp bend and steep sections, particularly near the bridge and falls which requires motorists to exercise more caution.