The death toll from Friday’s multiple motor accident in Katsina-Ala, Benue State, has risen to nine, while four injured victims are currently receiving treatment in hospital, officials have confirmed.

The crash, which occurred on the Katsina-Ala axis, involved several vehicles after an alleged deliberate obstruction of the expressway by two members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).

Sources told Zagazola Makama that the two drivers – Stephen Kahungur, of Gbor community, who drove a Toyota car with registration number Benue MKD 569 TJ, and Saater Vihiga, of Ammafu Village, who drove a Toyota Carina with registration number Benue AX 896 MKD – were arrested for allegedly blocking the highway and causing the fatal chain collision.

Also arrested was the Chairman of the NURTW Katsina-Ala branch, Aja Vanger, who was said to have mobilised the suspects to block the road.

The three suspects are currently in custody.

Authorities say investigation into the circumstances surrounding the obstruction and the fatal crash is ongoing. (Zagazola)