Reckless Taxi Driver Caught Without Licence

(Kampala) – Hassan Ssemwogere, a taxi driver whose driving style could best be described as “freestyle,” was arrested on September 19, 2024 for allegedly driving with all the recklessness of a boda boda rider on a Red Bull high. Ssemwogere, the proud pilot of a Toyota Hiace with the plate number UBL 390M, apparently decided road rules were merely suggestions and went on an overtaking spree that had fellow motorists fearing for their bumpers—and their lives.

The Traffic and Road Safety Directorate, led by spokesperson Michael Kananura, confirmed the arrest, sending a message that driving without a valid license is not just a casual oversight but a fast track to police custody. In a statement, Kananura thanked one vigilant citizen, Richard Nyombi, for tipping off the police. Nyombi, presumably one of the few Kampala drivers still hanging on to his sanity, reported Ssemwogere’s reckless antics to the authorities. And just like that, Ssemwogere’s run of chaos came to a screeching halt.

Ssemwogere’s escapades on September 19 were apparently so dangerous that a concerned road user couldn’t stay quiet. The witness assumed the taxi driver believed he was auditioning for a role in “Fast and Furious” overtaking multiple vehicles at several locations as if traffic laws were something that happened to other people. Kananura explained, “Our team swiftly collaborated with on ground officers to impound the vehicle,” which is polite code for, “We put an end to his joyride before he turned the road into a scrapyard.”

The inspection of his Toyota Hiace revealed that not only was Ssemwogere driving like a man on a mission, but he also didn’t have the one thing that qualifies you to drive—a valid licence. Yes, this man was out here playing Kampala’s version of “Need for Speed” without the legal paperwork. As if things weren’t bad enough, he’s now facing charges and a likely court date, where he’ll get to explain how he figured driving without a license was a good idea.

The traffic police spokesperson said Nyombi’s decision to report the driver’s hazardous behavior was a shining example of how ordinary citizens can help keep our roads safer. “Imagine what would happen if every driver took their road safety as seriously as Nyombi. No more taxis swerving like Kamunyes avoiding potholes; no more boda bodas behaving like they’re in a video game where only they know the rules.”

Kananura had more to say: “We extend our gratitude to Richard for providing crucial information, and we encourage the public to continue reporting similar incidents.” Basically, Kananura is calling on every Nyombi out there to stay alert and ensure that the next wannabe Fast and Furious star doesn’t end up turning our roads into a demolition derby.

Kananura reminded everyone that, between September 8 and 14, a staggering 61 lives were lost in road crashes across the country. Another 308 people were injured during this one week span, as if Uganda’s roads had turned into a battleground. It’s hard not to wonder if some of these crashes involved drivers who, like Ssemwogere, believed that driving recklessly without a license was just another day at the office.

While most of us are busy dodging potholes the size of Lake Victoria, others are out there driving like they are in an F1 race, endangering themselves and everyone else. The 61 deaths reported in just one week should serve as a loud and clear wake up call to everyone, from taxi drivers to traffic police. There’s only so much luck you can bank on when driving like a maniac.

Kananura left vehicle owners with a piece of wisdom as ancient as the hills of Kabale: Vet your drivers. You should not hand over your car to just anyone. If Ssemwogere didn’t have a license, you have to wonder how carefully the taxi owner was checking his qualifications. Kananura’s advice was simple: Don’t just toss your car keys to the next available driver hanging around the taxi park. Check their credentials first, unless you want your taxi impounded faster than a boda boda overtaking you in heavy traffic. If someone is out there driving like they own the road, don’t just shrug it off like it’s another crazy Kampala day. Report it. Because as much as we love a good drama, no one wants to be the next victim of a reckless road menace.