A devastating road accident occurred on the Accra-Kumasi Highway at Obretema near Suhum, claiming the lives of seven innocent people – five males and two females.
The victims were traveling on a VIP bus from Tamale to Accra when their vehicle collided with a fuel tanker coming from the opposite direction.
This tragic incident happened around 4:30 am on Saturday, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos in its wake.
According to eyewitnesses, the fuel tanker’s tire burst, causing it to veer into the lane of the VIP bus, resulting in a catastrophic collision that trapped passengers inside.
Emergency services, including personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service, police, and ambulance services, worked tirelessly to rescue the trapped victims. Despite their best efforts, seven lives were lost, and many more were injured.
Unfortunately, the accident also left 25 others injured, who were rushed to the Suhum Government Hospital for medical attention.
The bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the Suhum Hospital morgue for preservation and identification by their families.
This tragic event has sparked concern over the rising number of road accidents in Ghana. The Director-General of the National Road Safety Authority, David Osafo Adonteng, urged drivers to exercise caution and adhere to traffic laws to prevent such incidents.
He emphasized the importance of regular vehicle maintenance, safe driving practices, and adherence to speed limits.
Regrettably, this is not the first major accident on the Accra-Kumasi Highway. In February 2024, 16 people lost their lives in a crash at Akim Asafo, and five people died on the spot after an accident at Obretema in the Suhum Municipality.
These incidents highlight the need for increased vigilance and safety measures on Ghana’s roads.
The Suhum Motor Transport and Traffic Department of the Ghana Police has commenced investigations into the accident to determine its cause and prevent future tragedies.
The police are working closely with the National Road Safety Authority and other stakeholders to identify the root causes of the accident and implement measures to prevent similar incidents.
As the investigation unfolds, officials are calling on drivers to remain vigilant and cautious on the roads. The Ghanaian public is also being urged to report any vehicle or driver suspected of being unsafe to the authorities.
Road safety experts are advocating for increased enforcement of traffic laws, improved road infrastructure, and enhanced public education on road safety.
They stress that road accidents are often preventable, and collective efforts can significantly reduce the number of fatalities on Ghana’s roads.
The families of the victims and those injured are receiving support and counseling from local authorities and organizations.
The government has also pledged to provide assistance to those affected by the tragedy.
As Ghana mourns the loss of life, it is essential to recognize the importance of road safety and take concrete steps to prevent such accidents in the future. By working together, Ghanaians can create safer roads and reduce the risk of tragic accidents like this one.
