Lakena Bus Accident: Bus Kids Recall Moments Of Horror, Fear Riding Bus Again

Children who survived the horrific bus crash at Lakena, Nausori, on Wednesday are terrified and say they fear riding a bus again.

Zakreen Holding Limited bus was carrying 21 primary school students when it slipped and tumbled down the Lakena Hill Road, crushing two to death.

Two are admitted at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital while five are in the Wainibokasi Divisional Hospital.

Yesterday, those released from hospital after medical treatment gave their statements to the Police in the presence of their parents and guardians.

Eight-year-old Swaif Chiraag suffered a fractured forearm in the crash.

“The school bus was going up the hill and then another vehicle was coming from the opposite direction. The other driver yelled at the bus driver to reverse,” Swaif said.

“Next thing I know, the bus is turned upside down. Children were thrown around. I was pulled out by some men.”

Nine-year-old Nashita Riya Singh was emotional when she recalled the incident.

“The other driver shouted at the bus driver and then did this,” she said as she gestured with hand by showing the middle finger.

Eight-year-old Usenia Kini was fast to react on the fateful day. She jumped out of the bus.

“I was sitting a few seats behind the driver. I just did what I thought was right. I jumped out of the bus onto the road,” she said.

Survivors of the school bus accident at Lakena, Nausori, (from left) Esther Tuimata, Usenia Kini, Swaif Chiraag, Finau Bulivou and Cajetan Vuniwau. Photo: Kelera Sovasiga

Edited by Percy Kean

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