By Kate Bih
A heavy-duty truck transporting drinks veered off the road on Thursday, December 19, knocking down a woman and a bike rider in Bamenda.
The accident occurred along the Public Security Street, as the truck descended towards Ayaba Street.
At the time of this report, the conditions of the victims remained unknown, though witnesses described them as critical.
Eyewitnesses saw the truck driving past the police station moments before the accident.
“We saw the truck driving past the police station, and a few seconds later, it was off the road, knocking down two persons. The lady was hit from the side, while we pulled the bike rider out from under the truck,” recounted an eyewitness.
This incident adds to the rising number of accidents in Bamenda particularly during the festive season.
Many attribute the surge to reckless driving, poor vehicle maintenance, and the pressure on drivers to maximize profits.
“Look at what we now have, accidents everywhere, taking away the few lives spared by the armed conflict,” lamented a resident.
Hamisu, a witness and resident of Old Town, criticized law enforcement for their focus on identity card checks rather than addressing the state of vehicles and driver conditions.
“There are technologies to monitor all of that and save us from these deaths and injuries caused by accidents,” he stated.
Residents are urging the government and law enforcement to intensify road safety efforts during this busy holiday season.
