Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
ZIMBABWE’S Heroes and Defence Forces holidays ended in tragedy after a spike in deadly road traffic accidents left 24 people dead and 96 injured.
Police said the number of crashes shot up from 149 in 2024 to 196 this year. Fatal accidents rose from eight to 13.
“The total number of people who died increased from 16 to 24 whilst those injured were 96,” said national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi.
He said the bloodbath was fuelled by reckless driving, speeding, mechanical faults and dangerous overtaking.
Two of the worst accidents claimed 10 lives in just two days.
On 11 August at around 2AM, six Zion Christian Church congregants were killed and 16 others injured when a hired Quantum overturned along Mutare–Masvingo Road. The worshippers were travelling from Gokwe to Chimanimani when the driver lost control.
A day later, 12 August, a Toyota Hiace kombi tyre burst along Bindura–Shamva Road killing four and injuring 17. The kombi had 22 passengers crammed inside.
Other accidents added to the grim tally. On 11 August, two people died when a Toyota Hilux overturned along Masvingo–Mbalabala Road.
On 12 August, a 16-year-old girl died after falling from a moving Nissan UD40 truck in Checheche. “The victim, who was sitting in the loading box on top of sand, had disembarked from the lorry while it was in motion,” Comm Nyathi said.
Pedestrians were not spared. On 12 August, a man died on the spot after a Toyota Spade hit him along Delport Road in Hatfield. On 11 August, another pedestrian was injured when a Honda Fit hit them while crossing High Glen Road in Harare.
Police applauded kombi operators for cooperating during the period but warned all motorists to take safety seriously.
“Motorists should prioritise the servicing of vehicles to ensure they are fit and secure to carry passengers or goods on the roads,” said Comm Nyathi.
“Drivers should avoid speeding and overtaking in situations which are not safe to do so. Above all, drivers should adhere to all road rules and regulations in order to curb the continuous loss of lives.”
