Bus in Malifa road accident failed road worthiness inspection

Staff Reporters

Apia, Samoa – 06 September 2023: The bus Registration Number MO123 involved in a road accident that killed one and injured 27 passengers on Monday this week, failed inspection for its fitness and roadworthiness.

This is according to a Land Transport Authority media statement issued today.

“The bus involved in the accident at Malifa on the 2nd October 2023, is registered as MO123 owned by the Laumosooi Bus Company failed inspection,” said the statement.

“The certifying officers inspected the bus thoroughly in accordance with standard requirements,” the statement said.

Being on the road and carrying passengers meant the bus was operating illegally. One of the passengers who was seriously injured in the accident was a police woman.

According to LTA, buses are inspected four (4) times a year to ensure its safety and fit for public transportation and the Authority continues to work closely with the Ministry of Police to monitor compliance of our road users.

“Safety and roadworthiness of all vehicles must be confirmed prior to issuance of a Warrant of Fitness. The role of the Ministry of Police and Prisons is the enforcement of the Law,” the statement said.

64 passengers, mainly school children were injured when this bus overturned at Asau, Savaii 10 June 2019.

“At present, the LTA is reviewing the future operation of wooden buses on our roads with utmost consideration for the safety of our public transport.

“We urge the owners of our bus operators to ensure daily maintenance and check of buses before carrying out transportation services. You also have a responsibility to assist the Authority in ensuring safety of the public.

“We encourage the public to report to Ministry of Police or LTA if they witness the public service vehicles are not operated safely and legally by contacting 26740 for LTA Vaitele, 51508 for LTA Savaii.”

This is not the first time wooden framed buses have been involved in road accidents causing serious damage, injury and death to passengers and members of the public.