18 dead, 13 rescued in Enugu tanker crash

Enugu State witnessed a tragic incident on Saturday, as a petroleum tanker crash claimed 18 lives and left 13 others rescued in a fire-related accident.

This was contained in a statement signed and released by the spokesperson for the Federal Road Safety Corps, Olusegun Ogungbemide.

The crash, attributed to brake failure, involved 17 vehicles, including a petrol tanker, a water tanker, 15 cars, and a tricycle.

According to preliminary reports as disclosed in the statement, the tanker, laden with premium motor spirit, lost control after the brakes failed, leading to a collision and a massive fire outbreak.

Eleven vehicles were burnt in the inferno, while 31 people were caught up in the chaos. Emergency responders managed to rescue 10 victims with varying degrees of injuries, while three escaped unscathed. Sadly, the remaining 18 victims were burnt beyond recognition.

“A total of 31 people were involved in the crash. Ten were rescued with different degrees of injuries while three got rescued unharmed. Unfortunately, the 18 remaining victims were burnt beyond recognition.

“From the preliminary report received by the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, the tanker which was loaded with premium motor spirit experienced break failure and the driver lost grip of the wheels before crashing onto the 17 vehicles leading to a fire outbreak that left 11 vehicles burnt,” the statement read.

The rescue operation, FRSC, saw collaboration from Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, alongside top state officials, police, and security agencies.

Traffic on the affected route has been redirected to ensure smoother movement, with efforts underway to evacuate the wreckage.

The FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, commiserated “with the families of the victims and wishes the injured quick recovery” and urged motorists to exercise caution, especially when using alternative routes. Investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing.