"Deeply shocked by the brutal traffic accident that occurred in Serra da Leba, which resulted in a high number of fatalities and injuries, I bow before the pain and anguish of the families affected by this misfortune," reads a message of condolence from the head of state.
João Lourenço expressed solidarity with the families of the victims, assuring that the authorities will continue to provide all necessary support, with special attention to medical care for the injured.
A statement from the National Civil Protection and Fire Service, seen by Lusa, indicates that the accident occurred on National Road 280, at kilometer 134, in Serra da Leba, causing a total of 45 victims.
The accident involved a passenger bus traveling from Lubango to Moçamedes, which collided with a freight truck and spun off the slope in that mountainous area.
"The accident was caused by a vehicle skidding and subsequently overturning, which plunged into a precipice approximately 600 meters deep, resulting in 45 victims, including 21 fatalities (including three deaths recorded in hospitals) and 24 serious injuries, all of whom were treated by emergency teams on site," the fire department statement said.
The Civil Protection and Fire Service continues to monitor the situation and provide necessary support to the victims and their families, the statement emphasized.
