A serious accident occurred on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at approximately 7:26 p.m. along the Elubo–Takoradi Highway in Ghana. An Ivorian registered passenger bus, bearing registration number AB-415-AN, collided with a stationary Burkinabè passenger bus with registration number KJA-5604J at Azuletti, near Samenye. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) reported that the Ivorian bus was travelling in the direction of Benin when the collision happened.
The stationary Burkinabè vehicle had been left in a position that obstructed one lane of the highway, creating a potentially hazardous situation for approaching motorists. This obstruction ultimately resulted in the collision with the Ivorian bus. Preliminary information suggests that excessive speed may have contributed to the accident, although further inquiries are expected to establish the precise circumstances that led to the tragedy.
The impact of the collision proved fatal for seven occupants of the Ivorian bus, who were pronounced dead at the scene. Another victim subsequently succumbed to injuries at the hospital, bringing the confirmed number of fatalities to eight. The 21 passengers who survived the collision sustained varying degrees of injuries and were promptly conveyed to the nearest medical facility for emergency treatment.
Personnel from the Elubo Fire Station of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) played a crucial role in the rescue operation. They successfully rescued 21 passengers from the accident scene. Following the rescue operation, the remains of the deceased were formally handed over to the police for the necessary procedures and further action.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the dangers associated with obstructing major highways with stationary vehicles, particularly where adequate precautions and warning measures are not provided to alert approaching motorists. The positioning of the parked vehicle and the speed at which the approaching bus was travelling are expected to be investigated further.
The Elubo–Takoradi Highway accident is a significant reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for drivers to exercise caution while driving. The Ghana National Fire Service and other relevant authorities are expected to continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The authorities are urging road users to be vigilant and adhere to road safety regulations to prevent accidents. The incident has caused concern among the public, and the authorities are expected to take measures to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.
Key points
- Eight people lost their lives in the accident.
- 21 passengers sustained injuries in the collision.
- The incident highlights the dangers of obstructing highways with stationary vehicles.
