A solemn ceremony is being held today to bid farewell to Maame Dwomoh Baah, one of the two 12-year-old girls who tragically lost their lives in a fatal car accident last Saturday in East Legon, Accra. The body of the deceased has been transported for a private burial as her family, friends, and sympathizers mourn the loss.
The tragic accident, which also claimed the life of her classmate, Justine Agbenu, occurred on October 12, 2024, when a Jaguar SUV driven by 16-year-old Elrad Salifu Amoako collided with a 4×4 Acura vehicle on Mensah Wood Street. Both girls were students of Cornerstone International Academy.
The body of Maame Dwomo Baah, one of the girls who tragically lost their lives in a fatal car accident last Saturday carried away for a private burial.#3NewsGH pic.twitter.com/FAqU1XARfy
— #TV3GH (@tv3_ghana) October 19, 2024
According to police reports, Elrad’s Jaguar SUV, with registration number GN 7801-20, crashed into the Acura, which was being driven by Joseph Ackah and had five occupants, including Maame and Justine. Upon impact, both vehicles caught fire and burned beyond recognition. Unfortunately, the two girls lost their lives in the crash.
On Friday, October 18, 2024, the East Legon community gathered for a candlelight vigil at the accident site to honor the memories of Maame and Justine. Friends, family members, and sympathizers came together to reflect on the tragic loss and show solidarity with the grieving families. The vigil, held with candles and flowers, was a heartfelt expression of unity and mourning for the vibrant students whose lives were cut short too soon.
The heartbroken grandmother and mother of one of the victims of Saturday’s accident are overwhelmed with emotions, pain, and tears at the vigil currently happening at the scene of the accident in East Legon. Rest In Perfect Peace Maame and Justine🕊️💔 pic.twitter.com/kSRBxlKeXm
— GHANAMADEIT🇬🇭! (@ghanamadeit_) October 18, 2024
Following the accident, the Ghana Police Service launched an investigation, leading to the arrest of Elrad’s parents, Bishop Elisha Salifu Amoako and Mouha Amoako, for allowing their underage son to drive. The family has since issued a public apology, with Bishop Salifu Amoako seeking forgiveness from the families of the victims.
The other occupants of the Acura were rescued, with two individuals treated and discharged from the hospital. One remains hospitalized, while Elrad and his passenger are currently receiving medical care. The police have assured the public of a thorough investigation into the incident to bring justice and closure to the affected families.
Legal Provisions on Driving and Parental Responsibility
Per Section 25 of the Road Traffic Act – 2004 (Act 683), a person is disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving licence if they are under the age of 18. Specifically, it prohibits the issuance of licences for driving invalid carriages, motorcycles, or any other motor vehicles to individuals under 18 years of age.
Additionally, the law states that, except where otherwise provided in the Road Traffic Act – 2004 (Act 683), no person is permitted to drive a motor vehicle on a public road unless they hold a valid driving licence authorizing them to drive a motor vehicle of the specific class or description.
A violation of this provision constitutes an offence, and those found guilty upon summary conviction face a fine not exceeding 250 penalty units, a term of imprisonment not exceeding 12 months, or both.
Parental Responsibility
Section 6 of the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560) outlines the parental duty and responsibility. It mandates that parents, whether by law or otherwise, have the following obligations towards their children:
– Protect the child from neglect, discrimination, violence, abuse, exposure to physical and moral dangers, and oppression.
– Provide proper guidance, care, assistance, and maintenance, ensuring the child’s survival and overall development.
These legal frameworks emphasize the importance of adhering to driving regulations and safeguarding children’s well-being, with clear consequences for violations and lapses in responsibility.
