Driver killed as cargo train derails in Kaduna

A cargo train conveying soft drinks from Lagos to Kano has derailed at Igabi LGA of Kaduna state.

The driver of the cargo train, identified as Bala Kawu, died as a result of the accident.

Abdullahi Alhaji, spokesperson of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), northern regional district, confirmed the accident to NAN on Thursday.

The spokesperson attributed the accident to the vandalisation of the slippers and other parts of the rail track in the area.

He added that efforts are being made to recover the remains of the deceased, after which the train will continues its journey to Kano.

Recently, vandalism of rail tracks in parts of the country has become a source of worry for stakeholders.

TheCable had reported how tracks laid on a section of the Itakpe-Warri rail line were vandalised by yet-to-be-identified persons in May 2021.

On May 16, 2021, the Kaduna police command announced that its operatives arrested five suspected rail track vandals and recovered two trucks loaded with locomotive railway sleepers in the state.

Three days later, the senate asked the federal government and security agencies to ensure that those who are caught vandalising rail tracks are given maximum punishment without the option of a fine.

On July 2, 2021, Rotimi Amaechi, minister of transportation, said anyone caught vandalising railway facilities in the country should be charged with manslaughter.

A few days later, the minister said the federal government may consider a death penalty for vandals of critical railway equipment in the country.