A fatal road accident near the Kalagi checkpoint has claimed the life of a 12-year-old boy and left several others injured, authorities confirmed Sunday.
The collision occurred on the stretch between Bondali and Joreng, involving a commercial vehicle and a private car bearing Senegalese registration plates. Both vehicles were heading toward Soma when the commercial vehicle reportedly suffered a rear tire burst. As the private car attempted to overtake, the two vehicles collided in what police described as a devastating crash.
Seedy Jammeh, 12, died at the scene. His death has shocked the local community and prompted renewed calls for road safety.
Superintendent Modou Musa Sissawo, Public Relations Officer for the Gambia Police Force, said the impact of the crash left multiple people injured. The drivers of both vehicles and several passengers were rushed to Bwiam General Hospital for treatment.
Those currently receiving medical care at Bwiam include:
Lamin Touray, driver of the commercial vehicle
Muhammad Abdoulie Nyang (26), Senegalese national and driver of the private vehicle
Ida Ceesay (35)
Oumie Karry (18), Senegalese
Abdoulie Minteh (36)
Yasanu Badginka (46)
Two other victims, Tonko Saidykhan and Muhammed Minteh (age unknown), were later transferred to Ndemban Clinic for further treatment due to the severity of their injuries.
The Gambia Police Force has extended condolences to the family of Seedy Jammeh and urged all drivers to exercise caution on the roads.
“We call on all motorists to strictly adhere to traffic laws, maintain their vehicles in roadworthy condition, and avoid any reckless behavior that could endanger lives,” Superintendent Sissawo said.
An investigation into the incident is underway.
