Scores die in Enugu auto crash

SCORES of passengers have died in an auto crash that occured at Ituku junction, Awgu Local Council, along Enugu/ Port Harcourt expressway.

Confirming the development, in a statement, yesterday, spokesperson for Enugu

State Police Command, Daniel Ndukwe, said the accident occurred at about 8: 30p. m. on Saturday.

He said: “Enugu State Police Command regrets to inform the general public that on April 8, 2023 at about 8: 30p. m., a fatal motor accident involving a Mercedes Benz Tipper with registration number AAA 285 XR and an 18- seater commuter bus belonging to Enugu South Mass Transit bus, with registration number NKE 622 XA, occurred at Ituku Awgu LGA, along Enugu/ Port- Harcourt expressway.

“Preliminary investigation reveals that the Tipper loaded with bags of cement, plying against traffic from Enugu City, had a head- on collision with the bus loaded with passengers and coming from Aba, Abia State, which resulted in the both vehicles bursting up in flames and all the occupants burnt beyond recognition, except the driver of the Tipper, who was found alive and is currently admitted in a hospital.”

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Ammani, while bemoaning the unfortunate incident, in this Easter season, when Christians in the state and the world over are commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, has prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and also consoled their families, friends and loved ones.

The CP has, therefore, ordered the State Traffic Officer to carry out a full- scale motor traffic investigation into the incident, including evacuating the remains and obtaining the exact identities of the deceased victims and their relatives, as well as coming up with an actionable report.

He cautioned motorists against disobeying road traffic rules, while reiterating that the only way to safety on the road is to exercise caution, patience and obey all road traffic rules and regulations.