Police in Kagadi District have launched search and rescue operations after a canoe carrying dozens of passengers capsized on River Nguse on Tuesday night.
The accident happened at around 8:30pm near Kyaleni Village in Pachwa Town Council, where the vessel is believed to have been transporting between 35 and 40 people.
Authorities say at least one survivor has been identified as Byaruhanga Tumuhaise, 27, a resident of the area. However, the exact number of people on board—and those still missing—remains unclear due to the absence of a passenger list.
Marine Police teams have since been deployed to the scene and are continuing efforts to locate survivors and recover bodies. Investigations into the cause of the incident are also underway.
Preliminary findings suggest the canoe may have been overloaded, travelling at night, or in poor condition—factors that are often linked to such accidents.
Police have called on families who suspect their relatives may have been on the canoe to report to the nearest station, particularly Kagadi Central Police Station, to assist with identification and rescue efforts.