CITIZENS COMPASS— A tree reportedly fell yesterday, and crushed two vehicles at the Awhum Village Market Square in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The resultant effect also led to the death of 11 passengers.
This occurred at about 8:45 p.m.
Vehicles involved were a Toyota Hiace bus and a Sienna minivan.
Spokesperson, Enugu State Police Command, SP Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed the incident in a statement.
He said the victims had boarded the vehicles from the Old Park area heading for various villages within the axis when they were trapped in the vehicles which stopped at the Market Square to drop off some passengers.
The statement partly reads, “Preliminary findings indicate that the vehicles had stopped to drop off passengers when the tree, weakened by heavy rainfall, strong winds, and apparent internal decay, collapsed on them.
“Upon receiving the report, operatives attached to 9th Mile Division swiftly responded and, with the assistance of community members, rescued four persons trapped in the vehicles and secured the scene.
“Regrettably, the eleven other victims were rushed to the hospital but were later confirmed dead by attending doctors. Their remains have been deposited in the mortuary for further necessary procedures.”
“The CP advises community leaders and residents across the State to regularly inspect and maintain large or ageing trees around markets, motor parks, schools, and residential areas, particularly during the rainy season, to prevent similar tragedies.”
