Gakenke- Seven people, Wednesday night, died on the spot after a public commuter bus they were
travelling in lost control and rolled into a valley.

The accident took place along Buranga hills in Gakenke District at about 9.30 p.m., Police said.

The minibus, registration number RAA 054T, was heading to Musanze from Gakenke trading centre.

Police suspect the accident was caused by over speeding. 

When The New Times reached the scene, the bodies of the victims were still trapped in the
wreckage as authorities attempted to retrieve them.

The dead were identified as Claude Byingingo, an accountant at Nemba Hospital, Venuste
Niyonizeye, a veterinarian of Mataba sector, and Abdal Habyarimana, Abikunda Julo, casual labourers.

Others are the bus driver and owner, Apolinaire Habarugira, and the taxi conductor who was only
identified as Long Shashi.

Eye witnesses reported that the driver of the ill-fated omnibus was in a race with another bus,
in an attempt to reach the next trading centre where passengers were waiting.

"We are still investigating the cause of this horrific accident,” Police said.

"We spent over four hours at the scene trying to cut the bus and retrieve the bodies. Six of
them had been crushed beyond recognition, one person died on the way to the hospital,” District
Police Commander, Supt. James Murigande said.

The acting district mayor, Richard Mberabagabo, warned that the nature of pavements along the
road which is under repair could cause more accidents.

Residents say most of the accidents are caused by over speeding and reckless driving,
especially in the evening when traffic police presence is minimal.

Ends