The collision occurred at around 6 a.m. on a major highway leading from Bonabéri to Douala’s city center. Witnesses said the truck, carrying goods, was moving at high speed when it struck the taxi head-on, crushing the smaller vehicle on impact.

"The taxi was completely destroyed. The driver and four passengers died instantly," said a rescue worker at the scene, adding that emergency teams transported two critically injured survivors to a nearby hospital.

Authorities Investigate Cause of Crash

Local officials have launched an investigation into the crash. While speeding is suspected, authorities said they were also examining potential mechanical failure or poor road conditions as contributing factors.

The Bonabéri highway is one of Cameroon’s busiest and most accident-prone roads, with frequent collisions involving heavy trucks transporting goods from the port of Douala to inland regions.

A local transport official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said poor enforcement of road safety regulations and lack of routine vehicle inspections have contributed to rising road fatalities.

Growing Calls for Stricter Safety Measures

The crash has renewed public frustration over road safety enforcement, with residents calling for stricter regulations on heavy-duty trucks, including speed monitoring and mandatory rest periods for drivers.

"We have been complaining about reckless truck drivers for years, but nothing changes," said Emmanuel Tamo, a local business owner. "These trucks are overloaded, poorly maintained, and speeding through urban areas."

Authorities have urged drivers to adhere to speed limits and traffic regulations, stressing that road safety remains a critical national issue.

Cameroon has one of Central Africa’s highest road accident rates, with the World Health Organization estimating that traffic-related fatalities exceed 1,500 annually.

Officials said further updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.