HARARE – A weekend of sorrow has gripped Zimbabwe after two separate road traffic accidents claimed the lives of seven people, highlighting the dangers of reckless driving and unsafe road conditions.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has urged motorists to exercise caution and avoid overtaking when it is unsafe, following the tragic incidents that occurred on Saturday, September 14.
The first accident, which occurred at around 7:25 AM, involved a Nissan Serena carrying eight occupants. The vehicle veered off the road and overturned after its rear right tyre burst, approximately 60 kilometres along the Roy–Chiredzi Road. This tragic incident resulted in the deaths of four people, while four others sustained injuries.
The second accident, which occurred at the 60-kilometre peg along the Harare-Mutare Road, involved a head-on collision between two Toyota Hilux vehicles. One Hilux, carrying two passengers, collided with another Hilux carrying eight passengers. This collision tragically claimed the lives of three people and left seven others injured.
ZRP Chief Staff Officer for Press and Public Relations, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the incidents in a statement issued on Sunday, September 15. He expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms two separate fatal road traffic accidents which occurred in Masvingo and Rusape on 14th September 2024, resulting in the loss of seven lives,” Commissioner Nyathi stated.
The bodies of the victims from the first accident were taken to Msiso Hospital mortuary for post-mortem, while the injured were admitted to the same hospital. The victims have not yet been identified by their next of kin.
In the second accident, the bodies of the victims were taken to Rusape General Hospital for post-mortem, while the injured were admitted to the same hospital. One of the three victims was identified by their next of kin as Chigwese Tendai Amon (52), a male adult of Neshena Village in Makoni in Manicaland Province.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police implores motorists to exercise caution and avoid overtaking when it is not safe to do so. Above all, drivers are reminded to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on a journey,” Commissioner Nyathi urged.
The ZRP has also called for increased vigilance from motorists, particularly during weekends and holidays when traffic volumes are expected to increase. Police have pledged to step up their road patrols and to enforce traffic laws to ensure the safety of all road users.
