A number of national ministers and officials accompanying President Salva Kiir in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State were involved in a road accident on Wednesday evening, police and a local official said.

Northern Bahr el Ghazal State Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Philip Madut told Radio Tamazuj that the convoy was involved in an accident near Aweil town, leaving some ministers and senior officials with minor injuries.

“Some national ministers, including National Minister of Wildlife Rizig Zachariah and Minister of Culture Nadia Arop, sustained injuries. Also, the national assembly's deputy speaker, Cornelio Kon, sustained minor injuries.  But all the injuries were minor. The incident happened when they left  Aweil Centre heading to Aweil town. I was in front, so I could not know most of those who sustained injuries,” Madut said.

“Four vehicles were involved in the accident, and it was caused by a lot of dust and wind. Actually, four vehicles collided. The accident happened at around 4 pm,” he added.

The police commissioner reassured the public and said what happened was not a major road accident. “Minister Nadia Arop sustained some injuries in the head, but she is fine. Other ministers and officials sustained minor injuries, but they are fine. I can say the visits of the ministers and the president to the counties of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State were very good and peaceful and no problem at all,” he said.

Meanwhile, Aweil Centre County Commissioner Peter Natale confirmed the road accident. “Yes, I can confirm that there was a road accident involving the convoy of the national ministers. The road accident was caused by one Land Cruiser vehicle. But the injuries were minor,” he said.

Radio Tamazuj will keep you updated.