Some of the impounded vehicles at Katwe Police Station.
Police in Kampala arrested 124 motorists during a weekend drink-driving operation aimed at reducing road crashes caused by driving under the influence of alcohol.
The operation, code-named Operation Kawunyemu, was conducted by the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety in partnership with Kampala Metropolitan Police across nine divisions in Kampala and surrounding areas.
Traffic Police spokesperson Michael Kananura said the operation was marked by drama after a female motorist locked herself inside her vehicle for about 11 hours to avoid arrest.
“There was one stubborn lady who locked herself inside the car. The vehicle was towed up to the station,” Kananura said.
“Imagine from midnight up to 10am, when the heat was too much, that she decided to open the car,” he added.
The arrests were recorded in Katwe, where 24 drivers were apprehended; Kawempe, 18; Nansana, 16; Kabalagala and Old Kampala, 14 each; Kampala Central Police Station, 13; Jinja Road, 12; Kiira Road, seven; and Nsangi, six.
Kananura said all the suspects were detained pending court proceedings.
“All 124 drivers were detained pending court proceedings tomorrow,” he said.
Police said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to combat road crashes and deter motorists from driving after consuming alcohol.
“Our message is clear: If you drink, do not drive. Arrange for a sober driver or use a special-hire vehicle to get home safely,” Kananura said.
“We will not allow anyone to endanger lives by drinking and driving.”
He said similar operations would continue as police intensify efforts to remove dangerous drivers from the roads and improve safety for all road users.
“In subsequent operations, we will have no option but to name and shame those who choose to drink and drive,” Kananura warned.About The Author
