Police in Kagadi District have launched search and rescue operations after a canoe carrying an estimated 35 to 40 passengers went down on River Nguse late on Monday night.
The accident happened at around 8:30pm on April 28, 2026, in Kyaleni Village, Pachwa Town Council. So far, only one survivor has been identified: Byaruhanga Tumuhaise, 27, a resident of Kyaleni Village.
Albertine Region Police spokesperson SP Julius Hakiiza confirmed that officers responded as soon as the report came in. He said the exact number of people missing could not be confirmed immediately because there was no passenger manifest on the canoe.
Marine Police have since deployed to the river to carry out search and rescue operations, while investigators work to establish what caused the boat to capsize. Hakiiza pointed to a number of possible factors, including overloading, the condition of the canoe, and the risks that come with travelling on water at night.
Authorities are asking relatives of anyone who may have been on the canoe that evening to report to Kagadi Central Police Station. Police say they will continue to provide updates as the search progresses.
The accident has renewed concern among residents about water safety in the district, particularly the dangers of night travel on local rivers.
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