At least eight mobile market vendors were killed and seven others seriously injured late Saturday after a truck crashed on a hilly road in western Uganda, police said. These traders often make long journeys to auction markets.

The crash occurred at about 10:45 pm on December 20 at Misana Village along the Nsiika–Bukiiro Road in Buhweju District, according to Greater Bushenyi Regional Police spokesperson Apollo Tayebwa.

The crash involved a Fuso lorry, registration number UBA 649Z, which was travelling towards Rubindi when it reportedly suffered mechanical brake failure while descending a steep slope.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that the vehicle experienced brake failure, causing the driver to lose control,” Tayebwa said.

Police said the victims, most of them mobile market vendors, were travelling to Rubindi when the lorry veered off the road and crashed.

By press time on Sunday, three of the deceased had been identified as Justus Musinguzi, Jackson Turyagyenda, Kekimuli, and Kemigisha, among others. Their bodies were taken to Nsiika Health Centre IV mortuary for post-mortem examinations.

Seven survivors were rushed to Nsiika Health Centre IV for emergency treatment. Police identified them as Joab Babanza (45), Valentino Turyasingura (26), Amon Akampurira (31), Jovanis Kyarikunda (49), Yasin Kayongo (24), and Joan Katushabe (42).

Police said one female and three male survivors were yet to be fully identified.

The driver fled the scene immediately after the crash and remains at large. Police have launched a manhunt and appealed to the public for information that could lead to his arrest.

“Buhweju Police responded swiftly to rescue the survivors,” Tayebwa told _MONITOR_.

He warned motorists to strictly adhere to traffic regulations, noting the deadly consequences of road crashes.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families. We strongly urge all road users to comply with traffic rules because our lives have no spare parts,” Tayebwa said.

Traffic police were still examining the wreckage to establish the exact cause of the mechanical failure as efforts continued to clear the scene.

Road accidents are common in Uganda, often blamed on poor vehicle maintenance, speeding, and dangerous road terrain.

An average of at least 25 people die daily from road crashes and murders in Uganda, according to the 2024 annual police crime report.