Londile Moyo
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
A MASS funeral service is underway for 12 victims of the Toyota Quantum incident where the vehicle exploded and claimed lives between Chipangali and the Esigodini tollgate on Thursday afternoon.
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, is presiding over the sombre proceedings, which have drawn senior Government officials and legislators.
Among those in attendance are Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Evelyn Ndlovu, Umzingwane legislator, who is also Deputy Minister of Defence, Brigadier General (Rtd) Levi Mayihlomeas well as Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Omphile Marupi.
In an interview on the sidelines of the funeral, Minister Nguluvhe described the circumstances surrounding the accident as deeply disturbing, amid indications that the vehicle may have been carrying explosives.
“Investigations are still ongoing, yes, but it is clear that the vehicle was carrying explosives. I want to challenge the police to do thorough investigations, not only to verify if there were explosives but to find out where they were bought and their destination,” he said.
Police on Friday released the names of nine of the victims out of the 12 confirmed fatalities.
The deceased have been identified as Thabani Moyo (37) of Old Lobengula, Bulawayo; Nobuhle Mdlongwa (37) of Entumbane, Bulawayo; Oscar Mdlongwa (44); Sicelesile Mabhena of Nkulumane 5, Bulawayo; Sibusiso Mabhena (5) of Nkulumane 5; Mhlupeki Limkani Sibanda (36) of Nkulumane 5, Bulawayo; Tedious Ncube; Precious Moyo (36) of Pumula North, Bulawayo; and Promise Brian Gabadela.
Police investigations into the cause of the fatal incident are continuing.
Online Reporter
derick.khumalo