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The South African-registered bus, owned by Luquarary Luxury Coaches, was travelling towards Harare when tragedy struck around 7am.
Deputy police spokesperson Chief Superintendent Oliver Mandipaka said: “According to preliminary investigations, the driver of the South African-registered bus was overtaking another car in front of oncoming traffic and there was a head-on collision.”
He said 11 people died on the spot while two were pronounced dead on admission at Masvingo General Hospital.
Chief Supt Mandipaka said well-wishers assisted the injured and rushed them to hospital.
“We are still trying to verify the number of passengers injured as well as the names of the deceased while investigations into the fatal crash are continuing,” he said.
Chief Supt Mandipaka, however, warned motorists particularly public transport operators to desist from speeding and to always abide by traffic rules and regulations.
“We have time and again implored public transport operators to always abide by road rules and regulations. We still urge motorists to take caution when driving,” he said.
The just-ended festive season saw 85 people being killed in road accidents countrywide.
Police said 1 075 others were injured from 1 094 accidents recorded since December 15.
The accidents were attributed to human error, vehicle defects, road conditions and weather among others
Last night, the Government announced that it would offer US$375 per person to assist in the burial of the accident victims.
Acting Local Government, Rural and Urban Development Minister Nicholas Goche sent a condolence message to the bereaved families.
Online Reporter