A horrific head-on collision on the Mutare-Harare Highway has claimed three lives, leaving the victims of a Mercedes-Benz burnt beyond recognition.
The accident, which occurred yesterday at Die Guns Turn-Off, approximately 40km from Mutare, involved a Honda Fit belonging to Zambuko Trust and the Mercedes-Benz. The impact resulted in the Mercedes-Benz bursting into flames, tragically engulfing its occupants.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as deeply distressing, highlighting the devastating nature of the crash. The Honda Fit, travelling towards Nyazura, collided with the Mercedes-Benz, which was heading towards Mutare.
The accident has once again brought the issue of road safety in the region to the forefront. Social media commentary reflects growing public concern.
Jobert Ngwenya, posting on social media, commented: “I am not sure whether I am only being very sensitive this year, but I think since June or so, there’s been a fatal accident almost every two weeks. What’s an outlier is that the number of deaths are always averaging five. Something is definitely not right.”
His words echo a sentiment shared by many, highlighting the alarming frequency of fatal accidents on Zimbabwean roads.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, released a statement on Monday providing details of the accident and identifying five of the deceased.
Commissioner Nyathi stated: “The ZRP releases the names of five of the seven victims, who were positively identified by their next of kin as listed; Mutanga Brian, a male adult of Bocha, Marange; Madubeko Manyise (54) a male adult of 4th Street, Bulawayo; Ncube Sinqobile (43) a female of Xanti village, Esigodini; Muchemwa Matienga (62) a male adult of Lasper Road, Harrisvale, Bulawayo and Mafukidze Edmen Collin (39) of Overspill, Epworth.” The identities of the remaining two victims are yet to be confirmed.
The accident occurred at approximately 3:30 am at the 330-kilometre peg along the Harare-Bulawayo road. The Inter Africa bus, carrying 43 passengers, collided with the rear of a stationary Freightliner haulage truck.
Commissioner Nyathi explained, “Seven people died on the spot while 22 others were injured when an Inter Africa bus with 43 passengers on board rammed onto the back of a stationary Freightliner truck with no passengers on board. Of the 22 victims who were injured, six were treated and discharged while 16 others are admitted at Gweru Provincial Hospital.”
