Two Die, Two Injured as Trucks Crash, Explode on Awka-Enugu Expressway

Two persons have been killed and two others injured in a fatal road traffic crash involving two commercial trucks along the Awka-Enugu Expressway in Anambra State.

The crash occurred at about 11:45pm on Thursday, August 20, 2026, opposite Jezco Filling Station.

According to the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, the vehicles involved were a Mercedes 911 truck and a Mark tanker belonging to Shafa Energy, both reportedly without registration numbers.

The crash occurred in an area affected by ongoing road construction. An eyewitness said the Mercedes truck, which was allegedly travelling at high speed, suddenly applied its brakes, causing the tanker behind it to ram into its rear.

The impact crushed the Mercedes truck, after which fire broke out and triggered an explosion.

Four male adults were involved in the crash. Two died in the incident, while the other two sustained varying degrees of injuries. The injured victims were rescued by good Samaritans and taken to Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital, Amaku, Awka, before the arrival of the FRSC rescue team.

The bodies of the deceased, who were reportedly trapped and burnt beyond recognition, were being recovered as of the time of the report.

The FRSC attributed the suspected cause of the crash to speed violation and loss of control, while noting that its rescue team arrived at the scene within 10 minutes to manage traffic and ensure free movement.

The Anambra Sector Commander, Corps Commander Bridget Asekhauno, commiserated with the families of the victims and urged motorists to exercise extreme caution, particularly around construction zones.

She also appealed to relevant authorities to expedite the construction work and open the other lane to reduce the dangers associated with two-way traffic on a single lane.

The FRSC advised motorists to obey traffic regulations and avoid speeding, especially on partially obstructed roads.

For emergencies, members of the public can contact the FRSC toll-free line 122.