Online ReporterGibson Mhaka, Senior Zimpapers Writer
POLICE in Bulawayo have recorded 1 246 road traffic accidents in the city between July and October 2025, with 270 people injured and 49 fatalities.
Addressing journalists at the Bulawayo Media Centre on Monday as part of an ongoing dialogue and interface between journalists and the police, Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson said the statistics were alarming, which underscores the need for urgent road safety interventions.
She highlighted the worrying trend of hit-and-run incidents, where drivers flee the scene after causing an accident.
“Among the most serious types of accidents are the hit-and-run, whereby a driver causes an accident and then flees the scene without stopping to assist the victim or report the matter to the police,” said Insp Msebele.
“Such acts not only show negligence but also make it difficult for law enforcement officers to identify and bring offenders to justice.”
She said the police recorded 315 hit-and-run cases during the period under review. “The rise in hit-and-run cases highlights the urgent need for stronger road safety awareness, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and community co-operation, to ensure accountability and protection for all road users,” Insp Msebele added.
While acknowledging that most road traffic accidents are caused by reckless driving, speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol and failure to observe traffic rules, Inspector Msebele said pedestrians also contributed to some accidents.
“Pedestrians behaviour, particularly during odd hours also contributes to road traffic accidents hence police are calling on pedestrians to exercise caution and also wear bright colours at night,” she said.
Insp Msebele said pedestrians should avoid walking with their backs to oncoming vehicles and crossing roads at undesignated points.
“Some pedestrians cannot hear the sound of vehicles because they will be putting on earphones while others make it difficult for motorists to avoid them as they will be staggering while drunk and the situation is worse at night,” she said.
On armed robberies, Insp Msebele blamed poor security systems at homes and business premises for the upsurge in armed robbery cases being witnessed in the city.
She said there is urgent need to tighten security systems at homes and business premises as well as avoid keeping or carrying large sums of money.
“Individuals carrying large sums of money should avoid using unregistered transport (mshikashika),” said Insp Msebele.
She appealed to communities to establish Neighbourhood Watch Committees to complement police patrols, especially at night.
Insp Msebele urged those operating bars and bottle stores to adhere to their closing times to avoid putting themselves at risk of being robbed.
