Terrible: Speeding Car Rams Katakwi Checkpoint, Police Officer Killed On Spot!

By Swift Reporter

A police officer was killed and another seriously injured after a speeding vehicle crashed into a security checkpoint in Katakwi District on Sunday night.

The incident occurred at approximately 8:30 p.m. at the Getom checkpoint. The deceased has been identified as 24-year-old Police Constable Enock Kilobi, who was attached to the Police Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) in the Teso Sub Region.

According to Mike Longole, spokesperson for the ASTU, a Toyota Mark X with registration number UBR 151S, traveling from Soroti toward Karamoja, lost control before knocking down a checkpoint signpost and striking Constable Kilobi. He died instantly at the scene.

Another officer, riding a motorcycle at the checkpoint, sustained critical injuries and is currently receiving treatment at Katakwi General Hospital. Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle also collided with a parked motorcycle, registration number UEM232F, before hitting the officers.

Ibrahim Saiga, East Kyoga Regional Police Commander, confirmed the incident, stating that the driver of the vehicle survived and has been arrested. “The driver is now in custody at Katakwi Police Station as investigations into the cause of the accident continue,” Saiga said.

He urged motorists to observe traffic rules and reduce speed near checkpoints. “Traffic rules are in place for the safety of everyone on the road. We cannot afford to lose lives due to reckless driving,” Saiga added.

Constable Kilobi’s body has been transferred to Katakwi Hospital mortuary, where a post-mortem examination will be conducted. Authorities are closely monitoring the injured officer’s condition.

The crash is a stark reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement personnel stationed at road checkpoints, highlighting the need for vigilance and adherence to road safety regulations.