By Karen James
In a proactive move to curb truck-related accidents in Anambra State, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has engaged with members of the Truck Union to outline crucial safety measures for truck drivers and owners.
This initiative follows a tragic truck accident on March 15, 2025, at Upper Iweka, Onitsha, which claimed six lives and left several others injured. Eyewitness reports attributed the accident to a truck losing control and crashing into pedestrians, two tricycles, and a commercial bus.
Describing the incident as preventable, CP Orutugu expressed deep regret over the loss of lives and stressed the need for enhanced safety protocols. During the meeting held at his office in Awka, the CP highlighted several key strategies to mitigate such incidents in the future. These measures include:
• Conducting Risk Assessments: Identifying potential hazards and implementing steps to minimize risks.
• Regular Vehicle Inspections: Ensuring trucks are mechanically sound to prevent failures that could lead to accidents.
• Providing Safety Training: Educating drivers on defensive driving techniques, traffic regulations, and best practices for road safety.
CP Orutugu emphasized that the Anambra State Police Command would collaborate with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other relevant agencies to enforce these measures effectively.
Present at the meeting were FRSC Commander JN Alexander, members of the Police Command’s management team, Tipper drivers and owners, the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of 29 Squadron Mobile Police Base, and several Divisional Police Officers.
The Anambra State Police Command remains committed to ensuring public safety and reducing preventable road tragedies across the state.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Police Command, Awka
