A heavy early morning downpour on Monday led to a tragic incident in Jattu, Etsako West Local Government Area, as falling trees claimed the lives of four individuals in a popular market.
Reports from locals suggest the death toll could be as high as ten. However, the Chairman of Etsako West Local Government, Mr. Marvellous Zibiri, confirmed the deaths of four individuals while addressing newsmen at the scene.
“At about 8:00 am and 9:00 am, I got a call from my Vice Chairman and the Supervisory Council for Environment about the incident that happened at the Jattu market,” Zibiri recounted.
“During the rainfall, four trees in the market fell simultaneously while people took cover under the trees, thereby killing four persons and injuring many others.”
The chairman added, “So far, we have been able to recover four bodies, and we have taken them to the mortuary while those who sustained injuries are receiving treatment at the hospital.”
The incident has prompted ongoing rescue operations at the scene. Authorities are meticulously sawing down the fallen trees to ensure no other victims are trapped underneath.
Zibiri described the incident as tragic and expressed his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. “This is a deeply tragic event. Our hearts go out to the families who have lost their loved ones in this unfortunate incident,” he said.
As the rescue efforts continue, the community remains in shock and mourning over the sudden loss. The authorities have urged residents to be cautious during adverse weather conditions and avoid taking shelter under trees.
