By Ovat Abeng
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), RS5.3 Anambra Sector Command, has confirmed a fatal road traffic crash that occurred on Wednesday, at Immigration Junction, Agu Awka, along the Awka-Enugu Expressway, claiming the life of one male tricycle operator.
SRC Margaret Onabe, Sector Public Education Officer of the State Command, disclosed this in a statement issued to Journalists in Awka.
According to her, the crash, which occurred at approximately 1100HRS, involved two vehicles: a Mark LPG tanker and a TVS commercial tricycle (Keke) with registration number UMZ002QJ. Two male adults were involved one killed and the tanker driver was rescued unhurt.
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“According to eyewitness reports, the Keke driver was attempting to get passage from security personnel diverting traffic due to ongoing road reconstruction when the fully loaded tanker, which reportedly suffered brake failure, ran over him.
“FRSC rescue operatives arrived at the scene at 11:35 hours and commenced action. The victim was confirmed dead at the scene. No injuries were recorded. The remains of the deceased were evacuated in a body bag and deposited at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital Morgue, Awka. State Fire Service personnel were contacted and placed on standby due to the LPG content of the tanker to forestall any secondary incident.
Preliminary investigation attributes the cause of the crash to Brake Failure (BLF) resulting in Loss of Control (LOC).
Reacting to the incident, the Sector Commander, FRSC Anambra State Command, Bridget Asekhauno, expressed deep concern over the loss of life and cautioned drivers, especially those operating articulated vehicles, to ensure their vehicles are in good mechanical condition. “This crash is avoidable. We strongly recommend that all drivers adhere to prescribed speed limits and slow down considerably when approaching junctions, diversions, and construction zones. Lives are irreplaceable,” she stated.
The FRSC Anambra State Command remains committed to saving lives through enforcement, rescue, and public enlightenment.
For emergency assistance or to report crashes, call the FRSC toll-free number: 122, Onabe noted.
