Gambiaj.com – (KALAGI, The Gambia) – A tragic road traffic accident on the Bondali–Joreng highway has claimed the life of a 12-year-old boy and left several others injured, Kalagi Police have confirmed.
The incident, which occurred as both vehicles were travelling from Bondali towards Soma, involved a commercial minibus and a private car bearing Senegalese registration.
Preliminary investigations suggest the commercial vehicle suffered a rear tire burst, and during an attempted overtaking maneuver by the private car, the two vehicles collided.
The collision resulted in the death of Seedy Jammeh, a 12-year-old passenger. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Emergency services transported the drivers and several injured passengers to Bwiam General Hospital. Among those hospitalized are Lamin Touray, the driver of the commercial Sprinter van, and Muhammad Abdoulie Nyang, a 26-year-old Senegalese national who was driving the private car.
Other injured passengers receiving treatment in Bwiam include three females and a young Senegalese.
Two additional victims, Tonko Saidykhan and Muhammed Minteh, whose ages have not been disclosed, have been referred to Ndemban Clinic for advanced care due to the severity of their injuries.
In a statement issued shortly after the accident, Kalagi Police expressed their condolences to the family of the deceased and extended wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured.
Authorities also took the opportunity to remind all drivers to observe road safety regulations, conduct regular vehicle checks, and drive with caution, especially on highways known for heavy traffic and challenging conditions.
Investigations into the exact cause of the accident are ongoing.