By Philip Antoh
A devastating road accident on the Atebubu-Yeji highway, has claimed the lives of eight people and left numerous others with serious injuries, bringing sorrow to the Pru East District.
The tragic event occurred around 5:30 p.m. on Monday, close to Yomoase Beposo, when a mini-bus carrying 19 passengers, traveling from Ejura to Yeji, struck a large pothole and overturned.
The bus, registered as AS 4360-23, was reportedly exceeding the speed limit at the time of the incident. Many of the passengers were cattle traders returning from their business activities.
Emergency services responded promptly, but unfortunately, eight individuals lost their lives; among them were seven Muslims and one Christian.
The identities of the deceased have not yet been disclosed as efforts are being made to inform their families.
Medical personnel, have reported that one passenger is in critical condition at the Atebubu Government Hospital, while others are receiving emergency care at Yeji Mathias Catholic Hospital.
One individual has been transferred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi, and another has been treated and discharged.
The investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing, but preliminary reports indicate that excessive speed and poor road conditions played a significant role.
Hon. Dauda Abdul Naasir, the District Chief Executive of Pru East, described the road from Ejura to Yeji as “deadly” and stressed the urgent need for government intervention.
He pledged to collaborate with local Members of Parliament to advocate for immediate repairs to prevent future incidents.
“This tragedy underscores the daily risks our community faces on these roads. We cannot afford to lose more lives,” Hon. Naasir remarked.
Community members and local leaders are calling on the government and relevant agencies to take swift action to improve road safety, especially in rural areas where infrastructure is often neglected.