Dozens feared missing in Kagadi canoe accident

Marine Police are conducting search and rescue operations following a canoe accident on the River Nguse at Kyaleni Village in Pachwa Town Council.

The incident occurred on 28 April 2026 at around 8:30 p.m., involving a canoe that was reportedly carrying between 35 and 40 passengers when it capsized.

According to Julius Allan Hakiza, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Albertine Region, officers responded immediately to the scene. One survivor has so far been identified as Byaruhanga Tumuhaise, 27, a resident of Kyaleni.

Hakiza said the exact number of missing persons has not yet been confirmed due to the absence of a passenger manifest.

“Marine Police are conducting search and rescue operations, while an inquiry into the cause of the accident is ongoing. Possible factors include overloading, night travel, and the condition of the vessel,” he said.

He urged relatives of individuals who may have been on the canoe to report to Kagadi Central Police Station.