POLICE in Auki, Malaita Province have arrested and charged a male driver in relation to a fatal traffic accident on the Fouala feeder road along the south road from Auki on March 14, 2018 during which a 14-year-old boy died instantly.
“There were 26 passengers on board the vehicle and as they are travelling up the hill the vehicle engine stopped and reversed backward. It veered off the road and fell 73 metres down a hill,” says Supervising Provincial Police Commander, Malaita Province, Superintendent Timothy Apaesi.
“Sadly a 14-year-old boy died instantly while five other passengers were injured, some seriously. They were taken to Kilu’ufi Hospital where they have been admitted.
“It is alleged that during the last two weeks of traffic checks and awareness, the vehicle involved in the fatal accident did not come on the road until Police checks were done. Sadly it was involved in the tragic accident.
“The driver of the vehicle was arrested and charged for multiple traffic offences. He risked the lives of his passengers by transporting them in an unlicensed vehicle. This is what could happen when drivers and vehicle owners decide to ignore the law and use an unlicensed vehicle.
“I extend my sympathies to the members of the family and relatives of the 14-year-old boy and call on them to remain calm and allow police in Auki to investigate this tragic accident.”
–POLICE MEDIA
