Online Reporter
Takunda Gambiza
Herald Reporter
A ZIMBABWE United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) driver has been fined US$400 and prohibited from driving for 24 months
by the Hwange Magistrates’ Court after being convicted of culpable homicide.
On September 17, 2025, at around 7 pm, Thandani Mahlangu (42) was driving a ZUPCO Dragon bus along the Cross Dete-
Binga Road and on approaching the 85km peg near Simwemwe Village, he encountered two cyclists on the road.
Mhlangu, who was reportedly speeding, hit one of the cyclists, resulting in the victim’s death on the spot.
The court found him guilty of culpable homicide, noting that his negligence had directly caused the fatal incident.
He was sentenced to pay a fine of US$400 or face six months in prison if he fails to pay. Additionally, the court prohibited him
from driving for 24 months and cancelled his Class One driver’s licence, underscoring the seriousness of the offence.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPA) emphasised that negligent driving continues to be a major cause of loss
of life on the country’s roads.
In its statement, the authority expressed concern over the increasing number of fatalities resulting from reckless behaviour by
motorists.
“Negligent driving on our roads has been taking lives at an alarming rate,” the NPA said.
The authority urged all road users to “take extreme caution on the roads to save lives.”
The NPA also reiterated its commitment to promoting road safety and ensuring that offenders are held accountable to deter
further loss of life.
