Police Reveal why Man in Viral Video Set His Car Ablaze

Suubi Balidawa, the man involved in setting his car on fire following a recent road incident, has been arrested on grounds of suspected arson and obstruction of justice.

According to Michael Kananura, the traffic police spokesperson, Balidawa’s arrest follows a series of events stemming from a collision on May 7th, 2024, along Gayaza Road, where he struck and injured pedestrian Nakabaliki Naome while driving his black Toyota Wish.

“Initially, Balidawa attempted to evade the scene,” Kananura elaborated, “but was halted by vigilant boda-boda riders. He then purportedly agreed to transport the injured pedestrian to the hospital, but instead transferred her to a hired motorcycle, concealing his identity by parking his car elsewhere.”

Kananura continued, “Adding to the complexity of the situation, Balidawa provided false information to the victim’s family and failed to promptly report the incident to authorities.”

He explains that despite efforts by the victim’s son to engage police, Balidawa remained elusive until May 17th when he appeared at Kanyanya Police Station, following direction from Elegu Police.

“Initially denying involvement,Balidawa eventually confessed to providing false information and assuming responsibility for the accident.”Kananura recounted

He says the suspect was released on police bond on May 18th and instructed to furnish his driving license, insurance certificate, and registration book within five days for inspection. However on May 21st saw a social media video emerged, depicting Balidawa purportedly burning the vehicle involved in the incident.

Balidawa has claimed that the transported the injured woman to Mulago National Referral Hospital and had intentions to report the incident but was detained by personal circumstances, citing the urgent medical needs of his daughter.

He claimed to have been directed by a police officer to report the matter to any nearby police station, leading to his appearance at Elegu Police Station on May 9th.

He noted that despite agreeing to cover medical expenses for the injured woman the police frustration and the impoundment of his vehicle, which he claims prompted the drastic action of burning it.”