Online Reporter
Bokang Tlou
A SOMBRE cloud hung over Sobukhazi High School yesterday after two girls from the school were struck by a commuter omnibus on their way to school resulting in the death of one of them.
The fatal accident occurred along Luveve Road near Machipsini in Mzilikazi at around 7.30am, when a white Toyota Hiace commuter omnibus reportedly lost control and veered off the road, ploughing into the two girls as they stood by the roadside.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele confirmed the incident. She said the 16-year-old girl died at the scene while her 17-year-old friend sustained fractured legs.
Inspector Msebele said the kombi which was being driven by a 36-year-old man from Cowdray Park, was carrying 18 passengers.
“The vehicle veered of the road and hit the two girls who were standing approximately 20 metres from the road,” she said.
The injured student was rushed to Mpilo Central Hospital, where she is reported to be in stable condition. The body of the deceased was taken to the mortuary. The tragedy has left the school community, families, and the wider city in mourning.
Deputy Mayor and Ward 8 Councillor Edwin Ndlovu, who visited the accident scene, the school, and later Mpilo Central Hospital, expressed deep sorrow and called for urgent reform.
“It’s heart-breaking and deeply saddening to lose such a young and innocent life because of reckless and negligent driving. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family. No parent should have to bury a child in such circumstances,” said Ndlovu.
He also called for greater accountability and regulation of public transport operators.
“We urge all commuter omnibus drivers to respect human life. These buses must be registered under proper associations like Tshova Mubaiwa, Bupta, Vuta, and Bulawayo Transit to ensure they are regulated and monitored.”
An eyewitness said the kombi was speeding and it seemed its brakes failed.
“The driver lost control, and the kombi went off the road straight towards the two girls who were just waiting to cross. It was horrible,” said the witness, visibly shaken.
