HARPER, Maryland County – The Catholic Diocese of Cape Palmas has expressed concern over reports that the driver of one of its vehicles allegedly violated direct instructions before a tragic road accident along the Salala Section of the Monrovia–Gbarnga Highway left two persons presumed dead and several others injured.
By Peter P. Toe
The accident occurred in the early morning hours of Tuesday, June 23 involving a white Toyota Land Cruiser assigned to the Diocese’s Education Office.
According to eyewitness accounts, the vehicle reportedly lost control, veered off the highway and crashed into nearby bushes.
Initial reports indicated that eight persons were traveling in the vehicle at the time of the accident. Two men were reportedly killed, while six others sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
In a statement issued Tuesday from Harper City, Maryland County, the Diocese confirmed the incident and disclosed that the vehicle’s driver, Thomas Wesseh, had departed Maryland County on Monday, June 22 under specific instructions from church authorities.
According to the Diocese, Wesseh was directed to spend the night at the Catholic Mission in Zwedru and continue his journey to Monrovia the following day.
The Diocese further revealed that the driver had been expressly instructed not to carry passengers along the route.
“The diocese is therefore concerned about reports indicating that these instructions were not followed,” the statement noted.
Church authorities said preliminary information suggests the driver lost control of the vehicle before crashing along the roadside.
However, the Diocese emphasized that it is still awaiting official findings from relevant authorities.
The identities of the deceased and injured passengers have not yet been officially established.
Apart from the driver, church officials say they are still seeking information regarding those involved in the accident.
The Diocese stated that it is cooperating fully with authorities investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash and has pledged to await the outcome of official inquiries before drawing conclusions.
Meanwhile, the Catholic Diocese of Cape Palmas has extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and offered prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns about highway safety in Liberia, particularly on major routes connecting southeastern Liberia to the capital, Monrovia.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to determine the exact cause of the accident and establish the identities of all those involved.
