One of the coaches of Sierra Leonean club, Port Authority FC, Lamine Bangoura, a former international, has been confirmed killed while several players sustained different degrees of injuries after the team bus was involved in an accident on Tuesday night when going for a football game.
According to a statement from the club management, the players and officials of the top flight clubside are still reeling from the effect of the accident.
A local media which reported on the devastating accident on Wednesday said:
“The Sierra Leonean football is in mourning. On Tuesday evening, the Port Authority FC bus was involved in an accident. Several first team players are injured and in critical condition after this tragedy.
“The worst was the death of the Port Authority FC coach, Lamine Bangoura, who did not survive after receiving a serious blow during the accident.
“The team was en route to Kenema for a crucial match against Kahunla Rangers when tragedy struck, leaving several members in critical condition.
“The accident, which occurred at Konta Line, has claimed the life of the former Sierra Leone international and team coach, Lamine Bangura.
“Lamine Bangura was a highly revered figure in Sierra Leonean football and leaves behind a legacy that transcends the sport.
“Despite the best efforts of medical personnel at Masiaka Hospital, Bangura succumbed to his injuries, leaving behind a void in Sierra Leonean football.”
The Sierra Leone Premier League Board, in a statement on Wednesday, expressed deep regret and sent condolences to the team.
“While details of the incident are still emerging, it has been confirmed that there were injuries sustained by individuals involved in the accident.
“Our immediate priority is the well-being and recovery of those affected by this unfortunate event,” the statement said.