Police Impound Motorcycles in Rwenzori East Crackdown on Reckless Riding

Police in the Rwenzori East Region have intensified traffic enforcement operations targeting errant motorcyclists in a bid to reduce road accidents and improve road safety.

The operation, conducted at Kahendero Junction along the Kasese–Mbarara Highway, was led by the Regional Traffic Officer, SP Moses Mutabingwa. During the exercise, more than 15 motorcycles were impounded and taken to Kasese Central Police Station (CPS).

Police said the affected riders were instructed to report to the station with valid motorcycle logbooks and safety helmets before their motorcycles could be released.

According to police, many of the riders intercepted during the operation were travelling from the Bwera side towards Kasese Town while carrying excessive numbers of passengers, a practice commonly referred to as “pirion loading.”

Some motorcycles were found carrying three to four passengers in addition to the rider, a practice authorities described as extremely dangerous and a major risk to road users.

Rwenzori East Regional Police Spokesperson ASP Elly Maate said the operation targeted riders involved in overloading, riding without helmets, and reckless driving.

“Most of the riders were travelling from the Bwera side towards Kasese Town, some loaded with three to four passengers in addition to the rider. This is very risky because it endangers their lives through overloading,” Maate said.

He added that several riders were also found operating without protective helmets, exposing themselves to serious injuries in case of crashes.

“Some also lacked helmets as head protective gear, which is risky in case of any crash. Others were recklessly riding out of excitement, which eventually gets them into trouble,” he noted.

Police said similar operations will continue across the Rwenzori East Region and will target not only motorcyclists but also other road users who violate traffic regulations.

ASP Maate emphasized that the enforcement exercises are intended to protect lives and reduce the number of accidents that continue to cause injuries and fatalities on the region’s roads.

“These operations against such riders and drivers generally will be carried out throughout the region to protect our people from accidents that injure and claim the lives of innocent citizens,” he said.

Police have urged all motorists and motorcyclists to comply with traffic regulations, carry the required documentation, wear protective gear, and operate their vehicles responsibly to ensure safer roads.

The latest enforcement exercise comes amid growing concerns over reckless motorcycle riding, which remains one of the major contributors to road crashes in the region.

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