General News of Monday, 20 May 2024

Source: www.ghanaweb.com

Fatal crash of presidential convoy - What we know so far

Screenshot from the viral video [Courtesy social media]

A fatal crash involving the presidential convoy was first reported on social media in the late afternoon of Sunday, May 19, 2024.

Accra-based UTV, one of the first outlets to report the incident added a video showing a massive wreck.

The caption of their post read: "President Akufo-Addo's convoy has been allegedly involved in a tragic accident at Bunso Junction, Eastern Region.

"According to reports, the convoy was crossed by a KIA Rhino truck, resulting in a collision that claimed the life of one individual and left others seriously injured."

The report has since been confirmed by a statement from The Jubilee House signed by Eugene Arhin, the Director of Communications.

The release titled: "PRESIDENT AKUFO-ADDO’S CONVOY INVOLVED IN FATAL ACCIDENT ON ACCRA-KUMASI HIGHWAY," gave more details into the incident.

GhanaWeb picks out the major highlights from the statement

Site of incident, several vehicles involved:


"Several vehicles belonging to the President’s convoy were involved in a fatal accident along the Bunso-Akyem Asafo stretch of the Accra-Kumasi Highway," the statement read in part.

Several vehicles in the convoy have also been completely wrecked as a result of the accident, it added.

One dead, others injured and evacuated:

"Tragically, one of the drivers, Mr. Kwesi Atta, has lost his life. Additionally, several close protection and police officers from the President's security detail have sustained varying degrees of injuries and received initial treatment at the Suhum Government Hospital.

"The injured persons are currently being evacuated to the University of Ghana Medical Centre for further treatment and observation," the statement disclosed.

Whereabouts of president:

According to the statement, "The convoy was on its way back from Kumasi, after accompanying the President to Kumasi for a series of events this weekend.

"Fortunately, the President is safe and unharmed, as he travelled to Accra via military aircraft."

Other details being keenly awaited:

Exact cause of accident:


The media reports said the accident was caused after the convoy was intercepted by a KIA Rhino truck, that claim has yet to be formally addressed.

Any senior officials in convoy?

Were any other high-ranking government officials in the convoy at the time of the crash?

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured officers. Further details will be communicated as we continue to assess the situation.

"We appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time," the statement concluded.

TWI NEWS

Read the full statement below:



SARA