KARUMA, Uganda — Security personnel stationed at Karuma Bridge on Friday afternoon intercepted a 23-year-old man who attempted to jump into the fast-flowing Nile River, claiming he intended to “float” to Egypt, approximately 6,650 kilometres away.
The man, identified only as Ashraf, had travelled on a Crown Bus from Kampala and disembarked at Karuma town. He then proceeded towards the bridge with the apparent intention of diving into the river.
In a statement released on Sunday, Aswa West River Region police spokesperson, David Ongom Mudong, confirmed that security officers grew concerned after observing the man’s suspicious behaviour near the bridge and intervened just in time to prevent him from entering the water.
“Upon interrogation, Ashraf alleged that he had received instructions from a friend who only appears and disappears in his mind,” said Mudong. “This ‘friend’ had convinced him to jump into the Nile at Karuma so they could float together to Egypt and return.”
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Ashraf further informed the police that he had lost both of his parents and could not recall any of his relatives.
Based on his statements and erratic behaviour, police suspect he is suffering from a serious mental health condition.
Mudong confirmed that Ashraf is currently receiving psychiatric care at the Gulu Regional Referral Hospital mental health clinic.
