TSUMEB – A Toyota pickup (bakkie) overturned on the gravel road between Onyuule and Ontana in the Oshikoto Region on Wednesday seriously injuring five people as it tried to avoid donkeys.
All five occupants of the vehicle, including the driver were seriously injured in the accident, which took place at 19h25. “The driver swerved in an attempt to avoid hitting donkeys, which led to him lose control over the vehicle,” said Deputy Police Commissioner William Peter. The victims are Thomas Nhgisoono, Thomas Sakaria, Martha Philipus, Ruusa Herman and Veronika Shekunyenge, who is a police officer stationed at Onyuule. The five were rushed to hospital due to the severity of their injuries.
Commissioner Peter cautioned road users in the region to be very careful when travelling on the roads, since there are many domestic and wild animals in the Oshikoto Region and many people also use donkeys as a mode of transport. He said the open roads also present an irresistible temptation to drive fast. “Drivers should always, always abide by the speed limit to avoid accidents even when travelling on gravel roads, this will ensure peaceful and safe journeys,” cautioned the deputy police commissioner.
By John Travolter Matali