Federal Road Safety Forces said eight passengers were burned to D3ATH in a fatal road accident along Benin-Auchi Road in the western local government area of Etsako, Idasco State.
Mr Cyril Mathew, commander of the Edo division of the Federal Road Safety Force, disclosed this in a statement in the city of Benin on Monday, March 10, 2025.
Matthew said the witness’s account revealed that the accident occurred on Sunday, March 9, when a truck landed from Benin to Mount Ochi, experienced a brake failure and hit several vehicles trapped in traffic.
The impact reportedly ignited the fire, engulfed the vehicle and caused multiple casualties.
He said the crash involved four vehicles, including two tankers carrying diesel and petroleum products.
“According to witnesses, one of the tankers lost their brakes when they went down the mountain and crashed into other vehicles, causing a fire.”
He further revealed that two people died on the spot and four others were taken to the hospital.
After the fire was put out, he said emergency responders recovered seven bodies, including two on Sunday.
“Sadly, an injured victim succumbed to his injuries on Monday morning, bringing the D3ATH total to eight.
“Witnesses narrated how the truck driver and his assistant shouted: “No brakes! No brakes! ”Before hitting two other vehicles.
“The victims were reportedly trapped in congestion and they were not involved in any illegal fuel shovels,” he said.
The FRSC commander praised his personnel and local residents for their quick response, which helped prevent casualties.
