A
Mercedes Benz taxi on Saturday 4 February 2017 ran into a jubilating crowd from
a football game, injuring 30 people, the police have confirmed.
Eyewitnesses
said the accident occurred at about 21:45hrs when “the over-speeding” taxi with
registration number BJL 9212 D from Brikama Nyambai tried to avoid a truck
coming from Sifoe end.
As
a result, the 30-year-old taxi driver lost control of the vehicle and ran into
a crowd of football victory celebrants, causing serious injury to 30 persons.
Four
of the 30 injured were discharged from Brikama Health Centre since their
injuries are minor. Another four are
under observation at the health centre, and two were referred to Serekunda
General Hospital.
The
remaining 20, reported to be in a critical condition, were admitted at the
Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) in Banjul, where they are
receiving medical treatment.
The
taxi driver is under police custody to help in their investigation.
Meanwhile,
the office of the Inspector General of Police has renewed its warning for
drivers to be alert and cautious when using the public highway.
The
office further reminds people to respect the traffic rules and regulations, and
warned that anyone found wanting would face the full force of the law.