UNRA speaks out on "extortion" at weighbridges

The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), has said it has launched investigations into alleged bribery acts by its weighbridge staff on highways.

This follows a viral social media clip in which a citizen identified as a sand dealer accused the weighbridge staff on Kampala-Masaka highway, of extortion.

The individual alleged that weighbridge personnel had been extorting at least Shs500,000 for each route under the pretext of overloading fines, an amount he described as too high and unfair.

The clip sparked reactions on social media, with the victim urging the Minister for Transport and Works, Gen Katumba Wamala to intervene in what the individual said was mass extortion at weighbridges.

UNRA responds

In a statement on Monday, UNRA said it had not found sufficient evidence of specific facts or individuals involved, but promised to conduct a full investigation into the matter.

"We have received a report from a citizen, identified as a sand dealer/transporter, regarding alleged fraudulent behaviour by our staff at weighbridge stations. While the report does not provide sufficient evidence to specific facts or individuals involved, we take every allegation seriously and will conduct a thorough investigation," UNRA said.

UNRA further stated it had established robust internal intelligence and investigative mechanism, and warned staff at weighbridges against involvement in unethical behaviours.

"Any staff member found engaging in unethical behaviour is held accountable through a formal disciplinary process. If we find any validity in the allegations, appropriate actions will be taken in accordance with our internal disciplinary procedures and relevant laws," UNRA said.

The roads' body encouraged the public to report any instances of corruption or abuse of its systems.

"We value citizen feedback and appreciate your vigilance in safeguarding our national road network. This is vital in maintaining the integrity and safety of our roads."

UNRA, runs weighbridges at Mbarara and Busia-Kenya borders and mobile weighbridges on the highways of Kampala-Masaka-Mutukula, Kampala-Mubende-Fort Portal, Iganga-Malaba, and Tororo-Mbale.

It should be noted that the Vehicle Dimensions and Load Control Regulations of 2017, provide that the overloading fines for maximum gross weight range from 0.5 tonnes attracts a charge of $90.95, while an overload to a tune of 31.5 tonnes attracts $145.889.

However, over the years, there have been growing allegations of mass extortion by weighbridge staff, in the guise of overloading penalties.

It is alleged that some staff connive with drivers to pay bribes to dodge penalties for overloading at the weighbridges.