No fewer than 12 persons lost their lives on Sunday in a fatal multiple crash along the Yangoji Abaji axis of the Federal Capital Territory.
The Federal Road Safety Corps confirmed the incident in a statement issued by the FCT Command Public Education Officer Helen Ntaji.
Ntaji said the crash occurred around 11 45am at Gada Biyu with the first distress call received at 11 47am.
The Zebra 6 Yangoji patrol team she added arrived at the scene at 11 54am.
According to preliminary findings four vehicles were involved a Volkswagen Golf GWA 162 KZ a Ford Sharon bus AFN 325 YL another Golf car ABJ 111 NW and a Volvo trailer ANC 665 XA.
The corps said the crash was triggered by excessive speed and a loss of control leading to a chain collision.
Eyewitness accounts cited by the FRSC indicated that the trailer loaded with coal and operated by African Natural Resources and Mines Limited veered off the highway and ploughed into a roadside illegal motor park.
A total of 18 persons were involved eight men four women two boys and four girls.
Twelve victims died on the spot three sustained varying degrees of injury while three others escaped unhurt.
The injured were taken to Abaji General Hospital for treatment while the remains of the deceased were released to relatives for burial.
FRSC operatives also recovered personal effects and secured the scene.
The Motor Traffic Division of the Kwali Police Command has taken over further investigations.
FCT Sector Commander Corps Commander Felix Theman described the incident as a tragic one and condoled with affected families.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and pray for full recovery of those injured he said.
Theman also cautioned motorists against turning road shoulders into loading and drop off points.
“Commercial drivers who use unsafe roadside spots endanger their passengers and other road users,” he warned.
“This practice must stop to prevent more needless deaths.”