Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, Midlands Bureau
TWO people died on the spot and 22 others were injured when an Inter Africa bus they were traveling in overturned at the Boterekwa Escarpment in Shurugwi along the Gweru–Zvishavane Road on Friday evening.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the accident.
“The ZRP confirms a fatal road traffic accident which occurred at the 40-kilometre peg along the Gweru–Zvishavane Road on Friday at approximately 1800 hours,” he said.
Comm Nyathi said the driver of the bus carrying 61 passengers traveling towards Zvishavane allegedly lost control of the vehicle while negotiating a descent.
The bus, he said, veered off the road to the left, overturned and landed on its side.
“As a result, two passengers died on the spot while 22 others, including the driver, sustained injuries of varying degrees,” he said.
Comm Nyathi said the bodies of the deceased were conveyed to Shurugwi District Hospital awaiting post-mortem, while the injured were taken to the same hospital for treatment.
Comm Nyathi urged drivers to adhere to road rules, particularly when navigating hilly and mountainous terrains.
“Motorists are urged to observe speed limits, service their vehicles regularly and avoid overloading. Drivers should also be vigilant when descending steep slopes and use appropriate gears to maintain control of their vehicles,” he said.
Investigations into the accident are underway.
