Five young Gambians supposedly APRC Green Boys needlessly lost their lives over the weekend in a tragic automobile accident. The incident involving an ARPC pick up truck loaded with supporters was reportedly traveling at an exuberant speed to join President Jammeh and his entourage up country. The driver of the pick up truck lost controlled of the vehicle in the Central River region near the Sofa Nyama/Pakaliba bridge, which somersaulted several times before killing several passengers.
Eye witnesses to the accident said that the vehicle involved was a double carbin pickup truck carrying 13 APRC militants. Two people reportedly died on the spot while several others were transported to near by hospital for treatment. Three additional passengers were pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital in Jarra Soma. The five, who tragically lost their lives were identified as Lamin Njie Brusubi, Dawda Conteh Bakau, Modou Lamin Sanyang Serrekunda, Lamin Touray of New Jeshwang, and Bakary Tanja of Bundung. Both were buried the following day Sunday as is customary of their faith.
The tragic incident hit close to home for many Gambians. Anytime young Gambian lives are lost, it is a tragic unfortunate situation that could have been avoided. Many communities are mourning the list of these young men who have so much potentials. Unfortunately, the issue of reckless driving especially with militants associated with the regime has become an all too familiar story. Anytime President Jammeh and his delegation are on the road, such serious accidents seems to be a regular occurrence. Even young school children have become victims of such reckless driving. The administration must take these serious incidents to heart and crack down on reckless driving by drivers. Charity begins at home and therefore President Jammeh must reach out to the youths and demand more responsible driving. For now Gambia has lost previous lives and all should join to pray for the departed.