A devastating accident occurred on Sunday morning along the Bulawayo-Plumtree Highway, resulting in the immediate death of six individuals and leaving seven others injured. The incident took place at the 81km mark of the highway, where a Nissan Caravan kombi, carrying 19 church congregants, veered off the road and overturned.
According to national police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the deceased have been identified as Chamunorwa Jejeje (32), the driver; Nokulunga Ncube (43); Salathiselu Zikhali Ndlovu (60); Marry Jongwe (62); Essley Mbewe (58); and Privilege Simango (23). All of the victims were from Bulawayo. Their bodies have been transported to Plumtree Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examination.
The accident has left seven other passengers injured, who are currently receiving medical treatment at Plumtree Hospital. The severity of the injuries and the exact condition of the survivors have not been disclosed.
Commissioner Nyathi addressed the media, highlighting the critical importance of adhering to speed limits and road regulations. He urged drivers to ensure their vehicles are in good mechanical condition before embarking on journeys. “This tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the need for strict compliance with traffic regulations and regular vehicle maintenance. Our thoughts are with the families affected, and we call upon all drivers to exercise caution and responsibility on the roads to prevent such heart-wrenching incidents,” Nyathi said.
The accident underscores the ongoing challenges of road safety and the need for continued vigilance to avoid similar tragedies. The local community and authorities are now focusing on supporting the victims and their families while investigating the precise causes of the accident.
In other news – President Mnangagwa honors heroic truck driver with the Gold cross of Zimbabwe for saving lives in bus fire rescue
In a moving ceremony at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, President Emmerson Mnangagwa awarded Sirizani Butau the prestigious Gold Cross of Zimbabwe, recognizing his extraordinary bravery and selflessness. The award was presented during the Heroes Day commemorations, celebrating the acts of heroism and sacrifice that define Zimbabwean resilience and courage.
The recognition stems from Butau’s heroic actions following a tragic accident on the Mutare-Harare highway in December 2021. A Beta bus collided with a fuel tanker haulage truck, resulting in a catastrophic explosion that engulfed the bus in flames. Read More
