A tragic accident rocked Benin City on Wednesday evening as a two-year-old girl lost her life after a Vannette bus reportedly plowed into pedestrians at the Ring Road area. The child’s mother sustained severe injuries and is currently receiving treatment in the hospital.

The Edo State Police Command confirmed that the incident occurred around 5:30 p.m., allegedly triggered by the driver’s attempt to evade arrest by members of the Edo State Public Safety Response Team.

Following the crash, an irate mob confronted a member of the response team, blaming him for the tragedy. However, swift intervention by police operatives from the Esigie Divisional Headquarters prevented further escalation, as the officer was rescued and taken into custody for investigation.

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The police command has since launched a full-scale probe into the accident, with efforts underway to apprehend the driver, who fled the scene. Officers have also gathered pictorial evidence and other records to establish the exact cause of the crash.

Commissioner of Police, Betty Otimenyin, urged motorists to obey traffic regulations and cooperate with law enforcement to prevent similar incidents. She emphasized the importance of patience on the road, stressing that every road user has a duty to protect lives.

The police assured the public that all those responsible for the accident would face justice.

NAN