11 die in Christmas road accidents
By Audrey Kapalamula:
Eleven people died in 11 road accidents that occurred on Christmas Day, a slight increase from last year, police have confirmed.
According to a police report, 10 of the accidents were fatal and four people sustained severe injuries.
The total number of people killed during the same period last year was nine in 12 accidents.
Malawi Police Service national spokesperson, James Kadadzera, Thursday attributed the increase in the accidents to speeding and drink-driving.
“We have been preaching about speeding but a few unpatriotic drivers are still doing that. We condemn that in strongest terms. We have also fewer cases of drinking-and-driving. We are reminding all roads users to refrain from speeding and driving while under the influence of alcohol,” he said.
Advertisement
Kadadzera also expressed dismay with the tendency by some motorists who are involved in hit-and-run, which he said cost two lives.
Kadadzera also advised parents and guardians to take care of their children.
“Parents need to have full control of their kids. They should look after them to avoid further accidents. Teenagers also need to be guided. We have a defilement case in Nkhatabay District. Young people, out of excitement, may indulge in sexual activities. So, it is our plea to parents that they must look after their girls,” he said
During the festive period, the Central Region topped the list with seven road accidents.
The Northern Region ranks second with two accidents while the Eastern and Southern regions registered one each.
The report also indicates that the police registered 269 traffic offences due to speeding, 326 for exceeding seat capacity and 45 for driving while drunk.
On Christmas Day, a toddler died after swallowing a balloon while a 13-year old boy risks losing his eye-sight after a fire cracker blew up close to her eyes.
A vibrant writer who gives a great insight on hot topics and issues
