Online Reporter
Harmony Agere
POLICE have released the names of 25 people who died in a road traffic accident along the Harare-Masvingo Road in Chivhu, as the death toll rises to 28.
In a statement on Tuesday, Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the death toll had risen following the death of one of the injured passengers who had been admitted to Chitungwiza Central Hospital.
“The death toll has risen to 28 following the death of one of the injured passengers who was admitted at Chitungwiza General Hospital,” he said.
The victims identified by their relatives are Tanaka Magiya (11), Talent Magiya (13), Adiel Magiya (2), Nenyasha Magiya (4), Mellisa Magiya (39), Rumbidzai Kashongo Bonda (29), Believe Bonda (10), Tehila Bonda (2), Tavonga Bonda (8), Wisdom Masava (13), Devine Masava (9), Jonathan Marahwa (34), Moline Chamboko (57), Plaxecedes Nyamayaro (approximately 68), Humfrey Chikaka (44), Lizzy Nhema (38), Tawandamupandawana (2), Wisdom Chikaka (10), Kuzivakwashe Chikaka (12), Tariro Chikaka (14), Shamiso Chikaka (8), Idyai Munyanyiwa (52), Bernenia Zvomuya (63), Christine Nyakuzviranga (68) and Itai Fusirai (46).
Police said three of the victims were yet to be identified after being burnt beyond recognition.
“The remaining three victims were burnt beyond recognition and their identities have not been conclusively established,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
“CID Forensic Department has obtained forensic samples from the three unidentified remains for analysis to enable the identification process to be concluded.”
Commissioner Nyathi said police would only release the identities of the three remaining victims after forensic tests.
“The police will only release the identities of the three victims once the DNA forensic examination has positively confirmed their identities,” he said.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police continues to urge Zimbabweans to avoid night driving due to observation and visibility challenges.”
Police also appealed to church leaders and conference organisers to ensure that congregants travelling to gatherings do not undertake journeys at night or use vehicles that do not meet road safety standards.
“We appeal to church leaders and conference organisers to coordinate and ensure congregants do not travel at night and avoid hiring or boarding vehicles which are not adhering to the country’s road safety standards and measures,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police continues to urge Zimbabweans to avoid night driving due to observation and visibility challenges.”
