By Vivian Akua Amoah
Tragedy struck on October 14, 2024, when a VIP bus traveling from Kumasi to Enchi in the Western North Region veered off the road and plunged into a ditch near Kwapia, close to Obuasi.
The devastating accident claimed the lives of 13 people, including seven males, five females, and a child, all of whom were passengers on the bus.
According to eyewitness accounts, the bus, with registration number ER 2445-11, was overloaded after picking up stranded passengers from another bus that had broken down along the route. The bus lost control while navigating a sharp curve, causing it to skid off the road and into the ditch.
The driver, Osei Adu, was rushed to the hospital but unfortunately succumbed to severe injuries. Two police officers on escort duties were also injured and are receiving treatment.
Similar accidents have occurred on Ghanaian roads, resulting in significant loss of life. For instance, seven people died in an accident on the Accra-Kumasi Highway when a VIP bus collided with a tanker. Another incident involved a VIP bus traveling from Tamale to Accra, where five males and two females lost their lives instantly.
This tragic event highlights the importance of road safety and responsible driving practices.