In a tragic incident on Wednesday, a road traffic accident along the Farafenni–Jarra Soma Highway claimed the lives of at least seven individuals, including a police officer from Senegal. Additionally, 14 others sustained injuries in the collision that took place between Farafenni and Bereto.
Authorities in Farafenni have confirmed that the accident resulted from a deadly overtaking maneuver, according to several eyewitness reports. A collision occurred between a Toyota Hiace minibus and a Renault bus, resulting in both vehicles suffering extensive damage from the severity of the crash.
According to witnesses, the minibus, operated at high speed by Samba Touré, made an early overtaking attempt while situated third in line close to a bend in the road. A dangerous decision turned catastrophic as the minibus, registered as AA 202 VG, crashed head-on into an approaching Renault bus, which bore the registration number AA 514 TB.
The bus is owned by Cheikh Niang and was operated by 26-year-old Modou Samba. After the violent collision, the bus driver is said to have lost control of the vehicle, causing it to skid off the road and ultimately come to a stop on the right-hand shoulder.
Officials reported that five of the deceased had not been formally identified at the time of this report. Among those confirmed dead are the minibus driver, Samba Touré, and Jean-Baptiste Coly, a police officer from Senegal affiliated with the Golf Police Station. Seven individuals have been confirmed dead, with two of the bodies reported to be in an unrecognizable condition.
Fourteen passengers were injured in the incident, with seven individuals reported to be in critical condition and one sustaining minor injuries. Six individuals suffering from severe injuries were transported to Ndemban Clinic in Bakau, while two others, including one in critical condition, were admitted to Farafenni Hospital.
Six victims’ remains have been moved to the morgue at Kaolack Hospital, whereas the seventh body has been transported to Nioro.
In light of the seriousness of the incident, authorities in Senegal have mandated the medical evacuation of all critically injured victims to Dakar for more advanced treatment.
The police report that investigations into the accident are still underway, as renewed appeals urge drivers to remain vigilant, especially when overtaking on highways where visibility is restricted.
