A tragic road accident on Friday in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, resulted in the deaths of several members of the Special Anti-Touting Squad (SASA), also known as Ndi Aka Odo, with others sustaining serious injuries.
Eyewitnesses reported that the incident occurred along the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway when the operatives’ branded Toyota vehicle collided with a tipper truck heavily loaded with sand.
The driver of the squad’s vehicle was reportedly speeding at the time of the crash.
Peter Eze, an eyewitness at the scene, recounted, “It was horrifying. The vehicle had around eight young men, and they were driving at high speed before slamming into the tipper.
“Some died on the spot, while others were critically injured.”
The squad members were reportedly conducting a routine stop-and-search operation when the accident happened.
Some operatives were trapped inside the mangled vehicle, with passersby stepping in to help rescue the survivors.
The incident has elicited mixed reactions from the public. While many expressed condolences for the victims, others reacted with indifference or even approval, citing the squad’s controversial reputation for alleged brutality and extortion.
A video circulating on social media shows graphic footage of the accident scene, with bodies lying on the road.
Efforts to get official statements from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Anambra State Police Command have so far been unsuccessful.
This accident comes amid ongoing public criticism of SASA’s conduct, including an incident last year where operatives were accused of assaulting a motor park operator named Mgbiliba.
Despite growing calls for the squad’s disbandment, it has continued to operate, fueling tensions among residents.