Uganda Police have launched a 100-day crackdown on dangerous commuter taxis, warning that public service vehicles found in unsafe mechanical condition will be impounded.
The operation, which started on Monday, August 24, 2026, is targeting public service vehicles across the Kampala Metropolitan Area following a directive from Works and Transport Minister Fred Byamukama.
Traffic Police spokesperson Michael Kananura clarified that the exercise is not a ban on taxi operations but is aimed at removing unroadworthy vehicles from the roads and protecting passengers.
Police will focus on serious mechanical defects involving brakes, steering, tyres, doors, seats and vehicle bodies. Kananura cited cases of taxis operating with doors tied using ropes, severely worn tyres and damaged seats while carrying passengers.
Vehicles found to pose a serious danger to road users will be impounded and taken to designated yards for inspection and possible legal action.
The operation comes amid growing concerns over road safety in Kampala, which recorded the highest number of road crash fatalities in Uganda in 2025.
According to the Uganda Police Force Annual Crime Report 2025, the Kampala Metropolitan Area registered 1,183 road crash deaths, with pedestrians, boda boda riders and passengers among those most vulnerable.
Police also revealed that about 60 targeted vehicles inspected during the previous two weeks failed to meet required safety standards, while nationwide enforcement operations recently resulted in 398 drivers being apprehended for operating vehicles in dangerous mechanical condition.
Officers will also inspect:
- Vehicle and driver licences
- Route charts
- Driver licences and badges
- Dangerous loading
- Illegal vehicle modifications
- Overall roadworthiness
The operation will extend beyond taxis to include bus operators, heavy truck drivers and private motorists.
