Immigration Vehicle Accident Claims Two Lives in Oti Region; Residents Torch Car in Protest
Tragedy struck in Okanta, a suburb of Kadjebi in the Oti Region, on Wednesday evening when an Immigration Authority vehicle with registration number GI 441 crushed two teenagers to death. The vehicle, assigned to the Menuso border, was reportedly being driven by the immigration commander.
The victims, a motor mechanic apprentice and a makeup artist apprentice were on their way home from work when the fatal accident occurred. According to eyewitnesses, the Immigration Authority vehicle attempted to overtake another vehicle but veered into the lane of the teenagers, colliding with them head-on. The impact resulted in their immediate death, leaving the community in shock and grief.
Residents gathered at the scene shortly after the accident, and tensions quickly escalated. Police and immigration officers arrived to manage the situation, but their presence reportedly angered the crowd. According to some residents, comments made by the officers provoked the already agitated group, leading to a violent outburst.
In a display of their frustration and outrage, the residents set the Immigration Authority vehicle on fire before dispersing. By the time reporters arrived at the scene, the charred remains of the vehicle were all that was left.
Efforts to contain the situation were hindered by logistical challenges. The local fire service was unable to respond effectively as their fire truck had been out of service for months, leaving no resources to extinguish the flames.
The bodies of the deceased were transported to a nearby hospital for preservation. Preparations are underway for their burial, scheduled for Thursday, December 12, 2024, in accordance with Islamic customs. The community mourns the loss of two promising young lives, cut short in a tragic and avoidable accident.
This incident has highlighted underlying tensions between residents and the authorities, raising questions about the actions and accountability of the officials involved. Community members are demanding a thorough investigation into the incident and appropriate measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of this heartbreaking event, the spotlight remains on the need for improved road safety, effective emergency response systems, and a stronger relationship between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.
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