By Our Correspondent
A tragic road accident has claimed the lives of three people and left four others injured after a commercial truck lost control and burst into flames along the Nnobi–Agulu–Awka Road in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The fatal crash occurred near St. Jude Catholic Church in Adazi-Ani, sending shockwaves through the community as residents and motorists rushed to the scene in an attempt to rescue the victims before emergency responders arrived.
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Mercedes-Benz 608 truck was conveying seven male occupants when it reportedly developed a mechanical fault while in motion. The vehicle caught fire, veered off the road, crashed into a roadside barricade, and somersaulted, trapping some of the passengers inside.
The intensity of the fire and the impact of the crash left three occupants dead at the scene, while four others sustained varying degrees of injuries. FRSC rescue teams, with support from other emergency responders, quickly evacuated the victims and transported the injured to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention.
Confirming the incident, the Anambra State Sector Commander of the FRSC, Bridget Asekhauno, said preliminary findings indicated that mechanical failure was the likely cause of the accident. She urged motorists, especially commercial vehicle operators, to ensure their vehicles undergo regular maintenance to reduce the risk of preventable crashes.
The corps also expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished the injured a speedy recovery. It reiterated its commitment to promoting road safety through public awareness campaigns, routine vehicle inspections, and prompt emergency response.
Residents of the area described the accident as heartbreaking, noting that the sound of the crash and the sight of the burning truck drew people from nearby communities. Many commended the swift response of FRSC officials and other emergency personnel who worked tirelessly to rescue survivors and clear the scene.
Road safety advocates have renewed calls for stricter enforcement of vehicle roadworthiness regulations, stressing that regular maintenance and compliance with safety standards remain critical to preventing fatal accidents on the nation’s highways.
The latest incident serves as another reminder of the importance of routine vehicle inspections, responsible driving, and adherence to traffic regulations as authorities continue efforts to reduce road crashes and safeguard lives across the country.
