Crime: Carrying Nine Children on One Motorcycle

Police in Kakiri have arrested Allan Musisi, a boda-boda rider operating motorcycle registration number UEA 067F, after he was intercepted transporting nine children from the same family on a single motorcycle.

According to reports, the children’s parent allegedly prepared them for the journey and handed them over to the rider for transportation.

Uganda Traffic Police spokesperson Michael Kananura condemned the incident, describing it as a preventable risk that could have ended in tragedy. He urged parents and guardians to avoid exposing children to such dangerous situations and to prioritize their safety and well-being at all times.

Under Uganda’s Traffic and Road Safety Act, motorists who carry more passengers than the licensed seating capacity commit a traffic offence. The offence is punishable by a fine ranging from UGX 300,000 to UGX 1.2 million, depending on its severity, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.

Traffic police may also charge drivers with dangerous overloading, as carrying excess passengers compromises a motorcycle’s stability, braking efficiency, and tyre performance. Depending on the circumstances, drivers, conductors, and vehicle owners can all be held accountable, particularly in cases involving public service vehicles.

The incident comes amid growing concerns over road safety in Uganda. According to the 2025 Annual Crime Report, road traffic crashes increased by 3.7%, reaching 26,044 incidents. Fatal crashes rose by 3.8% to 4,602 cases, while serious crashes increased by 3.3% to 13,563. Minor crashes also increased by 4.5%, reaching 7,879 incidents.

The Kakiri incident serves as a stark reminder that road safety begins with individual responsibility. Authorities continue to urge parents, riders, and all road users to make safety their top priority to prevent avoidable injuries and loss of life.