By Burnett Munthali
Mangochi District was struck by tragedy yesterday as two separate road accidents claimed the lives of a 53-year-old motorcyclist and a 6-year-old pedestrian. The accidents, which occurred at Namiyasi and Nzingo Trading Centre respectively, have once again highlighted concerns over road safety in the district.
According to Mangochi Police Station spokesperson Amina Tepani Daudi, the first accident involved Yusuf Ajalu, a resident of Nkungumbe Village, Traditional Authority Mponda, who was riding an unregistered San LG motorcycle with his 7-year-old son as a passenger. Ajalu was traveling from Monkey Bay towards Mangochi Boma when the unfortunate incident occurred.
Upon reaching Namiyasi, Ajalu made a sudden right turn into an earth road without indicating, leading to a collision with an oncoming Toyota Quantum minibus, registration number BY 5412, driven by 37-year-old Samuel Bwino. The impact of the crash left Ajalu with severe head injuries, and he was immediately rushed to Mangochi District Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival. His son, who was also injured in the accident, is currently receiving treatment at the same hospital.
In a separate incident at Nzingo Trading Centre, six-year-old Patuma Elias lost her life after being hit by a Nissan Hardbody, registration number BQ 6842, driven by 45-year-old Chichiri Kahumbe. The vehicle was traveling from Liwonde to Mangochi when the accident occurred.
According to police reports, Patuma was crossing the road from right to left when she was struck by the speeding vehicle. The impact left her with severe head injuries, and she was initially taken to Ukalanga Health Centre before being referred to Mangochi District Hospital. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, she succumbed to her injuries while receiving treatment.
Patuma hailed from Mtambo Village, Traditional Authority Chimwala, also in Mangochi District.
Authorities have since reiterated the importance of road safety, urging both drivers and motorcyclists to exercise caution while on the road. They have also reminded pedestrians, especially children, to be extra vigilant when crossing busy highways to prevent such tragic incidents.
Meanwhile, police have launched investigations into both accidents to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incidents.
