By Hamza Kyeyune
KAMPALA, Uganda (AA): A collision of two buses in the West African country of Senegal early Sunday claimed the lives of 40 people and injured 87 others, the fire brigade said.
The accident occurred near the town of Kaffrine on the national highway No. 1 at 3.15 am local time (0315GMT), according to Col. Cheikh Fall, in charge of the National Fire Brigade.
“There were 125 victims, of whom 38 have died, … the wreckage has been cleared, and normal traffic has resumed,” he said, adding that the governor and local officials have visited the scene.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic road accident today in Gniby, causing 40 deaths and many serious injuries,” President Macky Sall tweeted. “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wish a speedy recovery to the injured.”
“I have decided on a 3-day national mourning from January 9th. An interministerial council will be held on the same date to take firm measures on road safety and public passenger transport,” he added.
Footage shared on social media showed the wreckage of the two buses, with firefighters and security forces on the scene of the accident.
Road accidents are common in Senegal, often attributed to poor roads and driver indiscipline, but this is one of the worst road accidents in recent years.
Meanwhile, the Turkish Foreign Ministry on Sunday expressed sadness over the accident.
“We wish Allah’s mercy upon who lost their lives, extend our condolences to the those relatives as well as to the friendly and brotherly people and the Government of Senegal, and wish swift recovery to the injured,” the ministry said in a statement.
* Diyar Guldogan contributed to this story from Ankara.
Additional report by The Muslim News
[Photo: A view from the collision of two buses in the West African country of Senegal early Sunday that claimed the lives of 340 people and injured 87 others in Kaffrine, Senegal on January 8, 2023. Photojournalist :Abdoulaye Ba/AA]
