By Patrick Idowu
The Federal Fire Service has confirmed the handover of a fire truck driver to the police following a tragic crash in Abuja that claimed the lives of three teenagers and left another critically injured.
The accident occurred around 11:00 PM on Friday in the Wuse 2 area of the Federal Capital Territory.
The fire truck was returning from a firefighting operation at Avenue Plaza in Banex when it lost control and rammed into the teenagers, killing three on the spot.
In a statement issued on Sunday, FCT Controller of the Federal Fire Service, Momodu Ganiyu, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as heartbreaking and painful beyond words.
“As a service, we are truly sorry for the unfortunate incident that claimed the lives of three teenagers.
“We understand the unimaginable grief this has caused the affected families,” he said.
Ganiyu disclosed that, in addition to handing over the driver to law enforcement, all officers on duty at the time have been suspended pending the outcome of a full investigation.
The service said it is cooperating fully with the police to ensure a thorough inquiry into the circumstances that led to the tragedy.
Meanwhile, the critically injured survivor is receiving treatment at a hospital in the FCT.
The accident has sparked public outrage and renewed calls for better safety protocols and accountability among emergency response drivers.