Bloody Easter weekend claims 16

Bloody Easter weekend claims 16 ELLANIE SMIT



WINDHOEK

A total of 16 people died in accidents on Namibian roads this past Easter weekend, compared to four fatalities that were recorded last year.

Police also arrested 20 drunk drivers on the roads this Easter, from 2 to 5 April.

According to statistics compiled by the police, fatalities increased with 300%, accidents by 289% and injuries by 352%.

A total of 74 accidents were recorded in which 122 people were injured, while the previous year only 19 accidents were reported and 27 people were injured.

Spokesperson of the police, Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi, said the massive increase in accidents can be ascribed to lockdown measures applied last year.

“During Easter 2021, the coronavirus regulations were lifted and, therefore, vehicular movement was free, that is why the accidents, injuries and fatalities increased.”

Khomas leads the charge

The highest number of accidents were recorded in the Khomas Region (20), followed by Oshana (nine), Omusati (eight), Erongo (seven) and Oshikoto (seven).

Kunene, Kavango and Hardap all recorded only one accident.

The region with the highest number of fatalities recorded was, however, Otjozondjupa, with four people losing their lives.

Of the 16 fatalities recorded this Easter, six were female and 10 male.

Meanwhile, a total of 1 107 admission of guilt fines were issued, totalling more than N$1.204 million.

The majority of the fines were for speeding (137), drivers being unfit to drive (136), driver’s licences (118) and not obeying the rules of the road (105).

Furthermore, 90 suspension notifications were issued, of which 67 were for illegal road transportation by seven-seaters, while 85 warrants of arrest were executed and 64 courtesy notifications were issued.