KAMPALA, UGANDA Police in Kampala have confirmed that a serious road traffic accident at Ggaba Trading Centre on Wednesday morning was likely accidental, citing a suspected mechanical failure on a prison transport vehicle.

According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala, the incident occurred at about 9:00 a.m. between Maranatha Primary School and Maranatha High School.

“It is alleged that motor vehicle registration number UU 00067 T, a Toyota Hiace (commonly referred to as a drone), developed brake failure upon reaching the Mobile Court premises,” Kawala said in an official statement. “The vehicle consequently knocked down a pedestrian identified as Mulwana Ronald, a 28-year-old journalist.”

Police confirmed that the vehicle belongs to the Uganda Prisons Service and was transporting a suspect, Christopher Okello, who is facing charges related to the alleged murder of four children in Ggaba. He was being taken to a mobile court session that had not yet commenced at the time of the incident.

Eyewitness accounts and widely shared video footage suggest that the van was reversing on a slope when it reportedly lost braking control. Security personnel were seen scrambling for safety as the vehicle rolled backwards uncontrollably before knocking down the victim.

Mulwana Ronald, also known as a TikTok content creator under the name “PL on TV,” sustained critical head injuries and was rushed to Mulago National Referral Hospital by a police patrol vehicle for emergency treatment.

Kawala emphasized that investigations are ongoing to establish the exact cause of the suspected brake failure and whether any negligence may have contributed to the crash.

“We urge all government fleet operators to ensure that vehicles are in sound mechanical condition at all times to prevent such tragic incidents,” she added.

The incident occurred as preparations were underway for a mobile court session in Ggaba, drawing law enforcement officers, court officials, journalists, and members of the public to the scene.

Further updates are expected as police continue with inquiries into the matter.