By Twink Jones Gadama
A tragic incident occurred in Blantyre, Malawi, when a 34-year-old man, Chifundo Magombo, was struck and killed by a train at Somanje, near Chileka. According to eyewitnesses, the train was traveling from Limbe to Balaka when the accident occurred.
Station Officer Jonathan Philipo of the Chileka Police confirmed the incident, stating that the train was driven by Elson Chisangwi, who claimed to have seen an object on the tracks ahead. Chisangwi applied the brakes, but unfortunately, it was too late, and the train struck the victim.
The victim, Chifundo Magombo, was pronounced dead at the scene. His body was later taken to the Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital for post-mortem examination.
According to Philipo, preliminary investigations suggest that the victim may have intentionally placed himself on the tracks. “The driver claimed that the victim was lying on the tracks, and despite applying the brakes, the train was unable to stop in time,” Philipo explained.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with many expressing sadness and condolences to the victim’s family. The police have launched a full investigation into the incident and are appealing to anyone with information to come forward.
The victim, Chifundo Magombo, was a resident of Ching’amba Village, Traditional Authority Kapeni, in Blantyre. His family has been informed of the incident, and counseling services are being provided to them.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety around railway lines. The police and railway authorities have urged the public to exercise extreme caution when approaching or crossing railway lines.
In related news, the railway authorities have announced plans to increase safety measures along the railway lines, including the installation of warning signs and the deployment of safety personnel.
As the investigation into the incident continues, the police are urging anyone with information to come forward. The incident has highlighted the need for increased awareness and safety measures around railway lines, and the authorities are working to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
The incident is a tragic reminder of the importance of safety around railway lines. The police and railway authorities are working to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future, and the public is urged to exercise extreme caution when approaching or crossing railway lines.
