In a solemn ceremony held on Wednesday, 22nd November 2023, Sierra Leone mourned the devastating loss of lives resulting from a tragic incident during the Unity Party Headquarters celebration of Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s victory as they were laid to rest.
On the 20th of November, jubilation turned to mourning as a vehicle careened into the exuberant crowd, causing multiple casualties and severe injuries among the celebrants. The incident sent shockwaves across the nation, leaving families shattered and communities in mourning.
The shocking event resulted in an alarming loss of lives, with individuals from the Pujehun District of Sierra Leone among the deceased, intensifying the sorrow surrounding the accident. The victims, including Sulaiman Vanjai and Mariama Koroma from Paywahun in the Barri Chiefdom, were mourned by the community.
Additionally, four individuals sustained critical injuries and are currently hospitalized for treatment. The four injured persons include Jattu Kallon from Saguehun Perri, Kula Ansumana from Kowama Perri, and others unknown.
The car, driven by an individual named William, was reported to be unregistered and was completely engulfed in flames following the collision. William reported jumped into another vehicle and escaped the crime scene.
The government swiftly intervened, collecting the remains of those who lost their lives and providing medical attention to the injured at John F. Kennedy Hospital in Liberia.
On the 22nd of November, 2023, with heavy hearts and amidst tearful farewells, the victims were laid to rest at 4:30 pm in Sarmuck Camp, Liberia, following prayers held at the West Point mosque.
The somber ceremonies paid tribute to the lives lost, honoring their memory and expressing solidarity with their grieving families and friends.
May their souls rest in peace
Let God Almighty Allah have Marcy on their souls