Buea, South West Region of Cameroon, was struck by tragedy in a devastating incident on the evening of January 23, as at least two lives were lost when a heavy-duty truck, loaded with cement, crashed into vehicles and a snack bar.
The unfortunate event occurred at approximately 6 pm, coinciding with the time when many Cameroonians were gearing up to watch the highly anticipated Cameroon-Gambia football encounter at the African Cup of Nations.
Eyewitnesses and reports indicate that the speeding truck lost control and violently collided with a vehicle, setting off a chain reaction that involved around five other vehicles and a building located in close proximity to the road.
Amateur videos obtained by MMI reveal a harrowing scene, with several cars completely mangled as a result of the forceful collision.
Apart from the two individuals who lost their lives, numerous others sustained serious injuries during the accident. Emergency services swiftly responded, transporting the injured to the Buea Regional Hospital for urgent medical attention.
In a disturbing twist to the incident, it is reported that the truck driver fled the scene immediately after the collision. As of now, the whereabouts of the driver remain unknown, adding an element of mystery to the tragic event.
The aftermath of this accident has left the community in shock, prompting questions about road safety measures and the need for increased vigilance on the part of both drivers and authorities. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash are underway, as the community mourns the loss of lives and hopes for a thorough inquiry into the tragic incident that unfolded on that fateful evening.