A devastating road collision in northeastern Egypt has killed 18 fishermen and injured three others, officials said Thursday. The crash occurred around 12:30 p.m. on the 30 June Axis south of Port Said province.
Authorities said a truck collided with a pickup truck transporting workers to fish farms in the coastal region. Egypt’s Labor Ministry confirmed the victims were fishermen travelling to their workplaces when the vehicles collided.
The cause of the crash remains unclear, and officials have not released further details. Preliminary information suggests many of the victims were from Matareya in Dakahlia province. Images shared on Dakahlia’s official Facebook page showed the pickup crushed between two cargo trucks.
Twisted metal and scattered debris covered the highway, bearing silent witness to the force of impact. Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouly expressed condolences and ordered financial assistance for the victims’ families.
The governor of Port Said visited the crash site and checked on the injured in local hospitals. Officials said efforts were made to restore traffic and ensure survivors received proper medical treatment.
Deadly road accidents claim thousands of lives in Egypt each year, reflecting longstanding safety challenges. Speeding, deteriorating roads and weak enforcement of traffic laws contribute to frequent tragedies.
Thursday’s crash adds to a grim toll that continues to haunt the nation’s highways.