Lilongwe Court sentences driver to one year in prison for fatal accident

The Lilongwe Magistrate’s Court has sentenced Tennis Likaomba, a 46-year-old driver, to one year in prison following a tragic accident that resulted in the deaths of five people. The incident occurred on May 4, 2024, at around 3 a.m. when Likaomba, who was driving a lorry from the Ministry of Justice, collided with a Honda Freed Hatchback carrying eight passengers.

According to Lilongwe police spokesperson Hastings Chigalu, the accident took place when Likaomba veered off his lane in Mpingu while attempting to overtake another vehicle. The collision with the Honda Freed resulted in the immediate deaths of two passengers, with an additional two dying within days of the accident.

Government representative Saddrey Sambo provided evidence that Likaomba had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.82 milligrams, significantly exceeding the legal limit. This level of intoxication contributed to the court’s decision.

Senior Resident Magistrate Wanangwa Nyirenda presided over the case and confirmed the sentencing of Likaomba, who hails from Chilepa in Ntcheu, to one year in prison. The court emphasized that the sentence reflects the severity of the offense and serves as a deterrent against driving under the influence.