The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has launched a thorough investigation into a potential link between a broken-down tricycle, commonly known as an ‘aboboyaa’, and the tragic chain of collisions that resulted in twelve fatalities at the Ofankor Barrier on the Accra-Nsawam Highway on August 13, 2023.
The investigation began following reports of a significant accident involving seven vehicles – two tipper trucks, two Sprinter buses, two saloon cars, and a single tricycle – at the scene. Preliminary data collected at the scene indicates that the tricycle had reportedly malfunctioned on the roadway, causing a significant slowdown in traffic.
Two tipper trucks, allegedly approaching the stationary vehicles at high speed, subsequently impacted the line, creating a significant queue of vehicles. The crash occurred at approximately 4:00 a.m. between the Ofankor Barrier and the John Teye enclave, effectively blocking the route for several hours. The incident involved a total of twenty-two individuals, including seven vehicles – two tipper trucks, two Sprinter buses, two saloon cars, and the aforementioned tricycle.
Senior Planning Manager Felix Owusu, speaking to MyJoyOnline, confirmed that a tricycle had reportedly broken down on the road, triggering a series of subsequent collisions. He stated that initial impact from the tricycle caused a series of collisions involving the other vehicles, leading to the substantial casualties.
He emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages and cautioned against concluding that the tricycle was the sole cause of the crash, as eyewitness accounts from bystanders are currently being reviewed. The NRSA is awaiting the full police report and detailed accounts from surviving drivers and passengers to determine the precise sequence of events leading to the accident.
The NRSA stated that the investigation is underway, prioritizing a comprehensive analysis of the available information and seeking to identify any contributing factors, including the potential influence of the curve in the road’s design. They are particularly focused on assessing the speed at which the tipper trucks were traveling and the exact circumstances surrounding the collision. The investigation is being conducted with the utmost urgency, aiming to determine the full extent of the tragedy and to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The NRSA has announced a commitment to fully investigate the incident, ensuring a thorough and transparent process.
The investigation is being handled by a dedicated team of investigators and analysts, and the NRSA is working closely with the police to ensure a swift and effective resolution.
According to initial reports, the police are examining the possibility that the driver of the tipper trucks may have been traveling at a high speed and that this contributed to the collision. Further investigation will focus on determining the exact speed and trajectory of the vehicles involved and examining any potential negligence on the part of the drivers.
The NRSA has indicated that all available information, including witness statements and photographic evidence, will be thoroughly analyzed as it becomes available, with a strong emphasis on understanding the sequence of events leading to the significant loss of life.
As of now, there are no confirmed reports of fatalities or serious injuries resulting from the accident, though the investigation is ongoing and the situation remains fluid.
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Source: MyJoyOnline
