At least eight operatives of the Anambra State Special Anti-Tout Squad have reportedly lost their lives, while several others sustained injuries, following a fatal road accident along the Onitsha-Owerri Road in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The crash occurred on Friday when the operatives’ branded Toyota Hiace bus collided with a tipper loaded with sand.
According to The PUNCH, eyewitnesses said the accident happened while the operatives were conducting their routine stop-and-search operation.
An eyewitness identified as Chinwe, who resides in the area, described the incident as horrifying.
“The vehicle was speeding before it crashed into the tipper, which was exiting a junction,” she said.
“The impact was severe, and the occupants were trapped inside. Passers-by rushed to rescue them, but sadly, more than four lifeless bodies were seen on the road while the injured were taken to the hospital.”
A video circulating on social media shows the aftermath of the crash, with bodies scattered on the road as bystanders attempted to assist the victims.
The accident also caused significant traffic congestion in the area, as residents and motorists struggled to navigate through the scene.
Authorities have yet to release an official statement on the incident. However, the spokesperson for the Federal Road Safety Corps in Anambra State, Margaret Onabe, said efforts were underway to verify the details.
“I am currently reaching out to our personnel in the area to get an accurate report on what happened,” Onabe stated.
