Train derailment: Panic-stricken 148 passengers, 30 crew members rescued by NRC

No fewer than 148 fear-stricken and stranded passengers of the derailed Warri-Itakpe train of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) have been rescued and evacuated.

No fatality or casualty was, however, recorded.

The derailment occurred about 12:30pm at km 30 Ajaokuta-Itakpe Section on Sunday, Persecondnews reports.

Sources at NRC said all the 148 passengers and the 30 crew members were rescued successfully as security personnel comprising the; Army, Police, NSCDC, and others were immediately alerted by the authorities.

Consequently, shuttle services along the Warri-Itakpe corridor have been suspended forthwith pending investigation into the derailment of the Train WITS 01.

Mr Sanni Abdulganiyu, the Coordinator of Warri – Itakpe train service, said the cause of the derailment is yet to be ascertained, but assured that the train service will be restored as soon as the repairs are done with.

“Thankfully, there was no fatality and no casualty. We were immediately alerted and security personnel comprising the; Army, Police, NSCDC, and the community vigilante were immediately drafted to the accident point with the assistance of the Local government chairman.

“All the 148 passengers and 30 crew members were evacuated to a safe place and arrangements were made to convey 148 passengers to their various destinations and they have been successfully conveyed.

“The cause of the derailment is not yet determined. Due to this incident, the service along the corridor has been suspended. Further details would be communicated to members of the public.

“Repair and operation will resume as soon as possible,” a statement obtained by Persecondnews said.