Police have ended rescue and search efforts at the scene of the fatal Odumase road crash after recovering the body of a missing victim believed to have been trapped under the wreckage of a DAF bus.
The accident, which occurred at Odumase, claimed the lives of 13 people on the spot. The body of a 30-year-old mechanic was discovered beneath the bus after the owner of the vehicle requested further checks at the crash scene.
The deceased, identified as one of the mechanics assigned to the bus, and another mechanic known as Daniel, were reported missing shortly after the accident.
Police, with support from relatives and a towing team, continued the search after the damaged vehicles were moved from their original positions. Family members also searched through heaps of tomatoes and personal belongings scattered at the scene in an effort to locate their relatives.
Konongo Divisional Motor, Transport and Traffic Department (MTTD) Commander, ASP Frank Asare Awuah, who led the operation, said the search was intensified after a relative reported that two brothers who were travelling on the bus could not be found at any health facility or morgue.
He explained that the towing of the vehicles allowed officers and relatives to conduct a thorough search, leading to the discovery of one of the missing victims.
However, hopes of finding Daniel alive or dead were not realised after several hours of searching. Police later suspended the operation, with plans to continue if necessary.
Meanwhile, medical authorities at the Asante Akim Central Municipal Hospital have confirmed that all 47 injured victims are in stable condition.
Two female victims, however, will be referred for specialised orthopedic treatment after sustaining fractures to their limbs and hands.
