Four males and two females reportedly died on the spot, while five others with serious injuries were hospitalised at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital in Banjul (EFSTH).
According to police PRO ASP Lamin Njie, the incident happened on 1 April 2016, between 20 and 21 hours along Tanji highway, involving a truck loaded with sand, with registration number BJL 2645E, and a passenger van with registration number BJL 3809H.
He said the truck driver was reportedly overtaking a vehicle when it collided with the van.
Four males and two females died instantly, and five others were hospitalised at the EFSTH in Banjul in a serious condition, including the driver of the van.
The truck driver is said to be in police custody, helping with their investigation.
“The Gambia Police Force is once again sending a stern warning to drivers to desist from dangerous and reckless driving,” the police PRO said, urging them to strictly adhere to the speed limit and road signs at areas out of police sight.
“We wish to reassure the public that the full force of the law shall apply to violators of the traffic Act and regulations, and equally step up preventive measures to avert such situations in the future,” the police PRO added.
On behalf of the police force, PRO Njie expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families.
“The police are, therefore, calling on partners and organizations to join us in raising awareness on road safety, as the life you are saving may be your own,” the PRO said.
