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after three more people died in separate accidents in the country between Sunday afternoon and yesterday afternoon, police said.
The three deaths were recorded in Bulawayo, Harare and Mashonaland East Provinces.
In an interview yesterday, national police spokesperson Superintendent Andrew Phiri said a total of 1030 accidents have so far been recorded since the launch of the 30-day festive season campaign period against road carnage on 15 December, which runs until 15 January.
“We have so far recorded 1030 accidents compared to 889 from 15 December to 15 January last year. A total of 166 people have been killed in road accidents compared to 80 during the same period last year while 867 people have been injured, compared to 606 last year,” said Supt Phiri.
“Three more accidents occurred between Sunday and Monday in Bulawayo, Harare and Mashonaland East Provinces.
Supt Phiri said a total of 10 826 excess passengers were recorded in public service vehicles.
“There have been allegations that police are ignoring overloaded vehicles at the roadblocks, but the truth is that we have recorded 10 826 excess passengers in public service vehicles since the beginning of the campaign, and police officers are making sure that vehicles do not proceed with overloaded vehicles.
“This, however does not stop errant motorists from ferrying passengers soon after the road block,” said Supt Phiri.
He warned motorists against drinking and driving, speeding, overloading, saying traffic police officers are out in full force to make sure that traffic rules and regulations are observed.
Meanwhile, Supt Phiri encouraged members of the public to protect their premises during the holiday, to avoid losing their property to thieves.
“Currently, the holiday is peaceful in terms of crime. Although we have recorded a number of crime incidents in the country’s provinces, we have not received major crime incidents where people lose their lives to robbers.
“I would like to applaud members of the public for heeding our advice and protecting their property during the holidays. They should continue to do so even during the beginning of the New Year,” said Supt Phiri.
Online Reporter