The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed a tragic road traffic accident that occurred on Saturday, 15 January, at the 156-kilometre peg along the Harare-Masvingo Road in Chivhu.
In a statement released on Sunday evening, the ZRP revealed that two people lost their lives, while 15 others sustained varying degrees of injury.
The incident occurred when the rear tyre of a Nissan Caravan Kombi, which was carrying 17 passengers, burst.
The kombi veered off the road before overturning and landing on its roof.
The impact of the crash led to the death of two people, and their bodies were transported to Chivhu General Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examination.
The 15 injured passengers were also taken to the same hospital for medical treatment, where they were admitted for further care.

Pindula News

A sad accident happened on a road in Zimbabwe. A tire on a minibus burst, causing the minibus to crash and flip over. Two people died, and 15 others were hurt. The injured people were taken to the hospital for treatment. The police are investigating what happened. It's important to always be careful when driving to avoid accidents like this.

Two Dead, 15 Injured In Chivhu Road Accident After Kombi Tyre Burst

Police have pledged to name and shame individuals involved in corrupt syndicates of commuter omnibus operators and traffic police officers at roadblocks.
Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi told <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/police-hunt-corrupt-kombi-syndicates">The Sunday Mail</a> that investigations have intensified nationwide, and those involved in corrupt activities will be named “in due course.” Said Nyathi:
<blockquote>
Investigations are in progress and we cannot disclose the names and details of those involved at this stage. Investigations are ongoing and we will provide information on arrests and charges in due course.
The ZRP claimed to have dismantled a syndicate involving traffic police officers who allowed commuter omnibuses (kombis) without proper documentation to operate and pass through checkpoints in exchange for bribes two weeks ago.
</blockquote>
As of Thursday, Comm Nyathi said they had impounded 2 136 vehicles, including kombis, under an operation codenamed “No to Mushikashika and Lawlessness on the Roads”. Said Nyathi:
<blockquote>
We have discovered a syndicate of kombis and a group of police officers who were involved in corrupt activities, where they would allow kombis with stickers but did not have proper documentation or that were not registered to pass through their checkpoints.
This indicated that there were corrupt tendencies which were going on and that group would then target kombis with proper documentation.
Police have since impounded kombis that were involved in these criminal acts, and we started with those operating in Chitungwiza.
We are not targeting Chitungwiza, as was suggested by social media reports, but we are doing this in all parts of Harare and other towns.
</blockquote>

Police in Zimbabwe are finding and telling everyone about corrupt people who work with combis and traffic cops to break the law. They are investigating and will share the names of those involved soon. They already stopped a group of traffic cops who let combis without proper papers go through checkpoints for money. They have taken away many vehicles, mainly combis. They are working to stop this corruption in all parts of the country, not just in one place. Police are working hard to make the roads safer for everyone.

Police To Name And Shame Corrupt Kombi Operators And Traffic Cops

A reckless kombi driver who was captured on video driving on the pavement along Julius Nyerere Way, opposite OK Zimbabwe Supermarket in Harare, has been arrested.
Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed on Thursday the arrest of Nikisi Kudzanai Peter (29), the driver of a Toyota Hiace Kombi. Said Nyathi:
<blockquote>
On 18th January 2025, police in Harare set up a roadblock along Seke Road, after receiving a tip that the kombi was leaving Harare Central Business District en route to Chitungwiza.
As the driver approached the roadblock site near ABC Auctions, he attempted to flee by reversing the kombi but was blocked by oncoming vehicles. He later switched off the kombi and fled. The kombi, was subsequently impounded.
</blockquote>
Nyathi added that the driver was arrested on 22 January 2025 after the police received information on his whereabouts.
Meanwhile, the ZRP has warned motorists against breaking road rules and endangering lives.

A driver in Zimbabwe drove a van on the sidewalk and got arrested. The police set up a roadblock and caught the driver trying to run away. The van was taken by the police. The driver was arrested a few days later. The police say it's important to follow road rules and keep everyone safe.

Kombi Driver Arrested For Driving On Harare Pavement

A kombi with 23 passengers collided head-on with an Isuzu light truck with no passengers. The accident occurred at around 7:45 AM on Monday, 20 January, along Domboshava Road.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the accident, which happened opposite Philadelphia School, Borrowdale, Harare.
The ZRP said 25 people were injured and were taken to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals for medical care.
Eyewitnesses alleged that the kombi overtook an unknown vehicle in front of an oncoming vehicle, leading to the collision.
In another accident on Domboshava Road, a fire brigade vehicle collided with a Nissan March opposite stand number 144.
The fire brigade vehicle had six passengers, while the Nissan March had three passengers.
The fire brigade vehicle was en route to attend the first accident involving the Kombi and Isuzu light truck.
The ZRP has urged drivers to be safety conscious on the roads.

A big van crashed into a small truck with no one inside. Many people got hurt and had to go to the hospital. People said the van tried to pass another car and crashed into the truck. Later, a fire truck crashed with another car on the same road while going to help the first crash. The police say drivers should be careful when driving.

Fire Brigade Vehicle Collides Head-On While Responding To Head-on Collision Involving Overloaded Kombi

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has said the driver of a kombi, who jumped out of the vehicle causing it to crash into a tree, was being escorted to Marimba Police Station after being arrested for a road traffic offence.
In a statement issued on Friday, January 17, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that the owner of the kombi had been identified but claimed not to know the person driving the vehicle at the time. Below is the full ZRP statement:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has taken note of a viral social media video of a kombi registration number, ACQ 1884 being driven along Hean Road towards High Glen Road turn-off.
The kombi driver suddenly jumped off the moving kombi resulting in the vehicle crashing onto a tree with people jumping out.
The correct position is that police officers from ZRP Marimba were manning a road block when they arrested the driver for openly contravening the provision of the Road Traffic Act, Chapter 13:11. The vehicle was impounded.
A Marimba Police Station vehicle then came to pick the police officers who had completed tour of duty. The impounded kombi’s driver was then ordered to drive to Marimba Police Station with two police officers inside the kombi, escorting it. The police vehicle was following behind.
As the kombi was moving, the driver suddenly jumped out, leaving the kombi to crash onto the tree. The driver ran away from the scene.
The kombi was later taken to ZRP Marimba by police officers. Witness statements were recorded from some of the passengers, the public and the police officers.
The owner of the kombi, Loverage Chikwape (50) of number 11076 Kuwadzana Extension, Harare has been located by the Police. He claims that he does not know the person who was driving the vehicle.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police implores kombi operators and their crew to assist in the maintenance of law and order in the country.
There is no reason whatsoever for any kombi driver to be reckless and openly cause an accident while being escorted to a Police Station with police officers and passengers inside.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The police in Zimbabwe were taking a kombi driver to the police station because he broke a traffic law. The driver suddenly jumped out of the moving kombi, causing it to crash into a tree. The police found the owner of the kombi, but he said he didn't know who was driving it at the time. The police are asking all kombi drivers to follow the rules and not be reckless while being escorted by officers. It is important for everyone to cooperate and follow the law.

Kombi Driver Jumps From Vehicle, Crashes Into Tree While Being Escorted By Police

14 passengers aboard a Nissan Caravan Kombi were injured when the vehicle was involved in an accident along Lyton Road, Harare on Friday.
Police said the kombi, with 18 passengers on board, veered off the road and landed in a ditch.
The injured victims were taken to Sally Mugabe Hospital for treatment. The ZRP said:
<blockquote>
Police in Mbare are investigating a serious road traffic accident which occurred along Lyton Road, Harare on 27/12/24. 14 passengers were injured when a Nissan Caravan Kombi with 18 passengers on board veered off the road and landed in a ditch. The injured victims were taken to Sally Mugabe Hospital for treatment.
</blockquote>
A Toyota Hiace, commonly referred to as a “Caravan” in Zimbabwe, typically has a passenger capacity of 15 to 16 seats.
However, it has become common for kombis to be overloaded, with each vehicle often carrying at least 20 passengers when considered “full.”
Even at police roadblocks, overloaded kombis are typically allowed to pass.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A van called a kombi had too many people inside and crashed into a ditch. 14 people got hurt in the accident in Harare. They went to the hospital for treatment. The van was supposed to have 15 or 16 seats, but it had 18 people inside. It's common for kombis to be too full and have more than 20 passengers. Police often let these overloaded vans pass at roadblocks. The accident is being investigated by the police.

14 People Injured As Overloaded Kombi Lands In A Ditch

A commuter omnibus (kombi) driver is currently on the run after allegedly running over and killing a 13-year-old Grade 7 pupil on Sunday afternoon.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said the unidentified driver placed the victim’s body into the vehicle and drove to Chitungwiza General Hospital. He abandoned both the body and the vehicle before fleeing the scene. The ZRP said:
<blockquote>
ZRP Mbare is investigating a hit-and-run fatal road traffic accident in which a grade 7 learner (13) died after being hit by an unknown motorist who was driving a Nissan Caravan kombi, registration number AGZ 0118, along New Chitungwiza Road on 15/12/24 at around 1352 hours.
The driver dumped the body and kombi at Chitungwiza Hospital and fled to an unknown destination. Anyone with information to report at any nearest Police Station.
</blockquote>
Police are urging motorists to always stop at the scene of road traffic accidents, provide first aid if possible, and report the incident to authorities.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A driver in a minibus hit a child and killed them. Instead of helping, the driver put the body in the vehicle and left it at the hospital. The driver ran away and the police are looking for them. The police want people to help if there is an accident and report it to them. It's important to always stop and provide help if you can. It's not good to run away from accidents.

Kombi Driver Runs Over Grade 7 People, Dumps Vehicle And Body At Chitungwiza Hospital

Police have warned conductors against opening doors while the vehicles are in motion following the tragic death of a 27-year-old bus conductor.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said that on Saturday, October 19, 2024, the conductor opened the door to pick up a passenger while the bus was still moving.
He fell onto the tarmac and was struck by the bus’s left rear wheels along Nemakonde Road near Conway College in Harare. Police said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP warns bus and commuter omnibus conductors against opening doors while the vehicles are in motion.
This follows after a fatal road traffic accident which occurred on 19/10/24 along Nemakonde Road near Conway College, Harare were a bus conductor (27) died.
The victim allegedly opened the door while the bus was in motion intending to pick a passenger and he fell on the tarmac before he was hit by the bus’ left rear wheels.
The victim sustained head injuries and was ferried to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospital where he succumbed to injuries up on arrival.
</blockquote>
In a separate incident, police said that two people died and 11 others were injured on Friday when a Freightliner truck collided with a Nissan Caravan carrying 11 passengers.
The Nissan Caravan was travelling along Dabuka Road, turning onto Harare-Mutare Road, while the Freightliner, which had no passengers, was travelling on Harare-Mutare Road. The impact caused the Nissan Caravan to overturn, killing one passenger instantly. Another victim succumbed to injuries upon arrival at the hospital.
The bodies of the two victims were taken to the Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals mortuary, while the injured were also admitted at the same hospital.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A bus conductor in Zimbabwe died after falling from a moving bus and being crushed by the wheels. The police warn conductors not to open doors while buses are still moving. Another incident resulted in two deaths and 11 injuries when a Freightliner truck collided with a Nissan Caravan. One passenger died instantly, and another victim succumbed to injuries later. The injured were taken to the hospital. The police are reminding everyone to be safe on the roads and follow the rules.

Bus Conductor Falls From Moving Vehicle And Is Fatally Crushed

Parliamentarians have praised the government for limiting kombis offering public transport services to a radius of 60 km, down from the previous 120 km.
The legislators said this new restriction serves as a deterrent against illegal taxi services, particularly in light of the recent rise in accidents involving public transport vehicles.
Kombis will also be equipped with the same speed-limiting and monitoring devices that are compulsory for larger buses.
Only larger buses, those that can carry more than 26 passengers, will be permitted to operate on longer routes in either scheduled or charter services.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/mps-hail-kombis-restriction-speed-limits/">The Herald</a> on Friday, Knowledge Kaitano, the chairman of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Transport and Infrastructure Development, said:
<blockquote>
It is a step forward, although we would have loved that the distances are even shorter.
Most of the accidents happening on our roads involve kombis and mushikashika vehicles so it is prudent to prevent them from plying highways.
At least in towns, their speeds are naturally limited by stops and other traffic. But we pray that the ministry has done a clear analysis to ensure that in as much as the kombis do not go beyond 60km, we have enough public transport, the bigger buses, to ferry people.
</blockquote>
In a statement this week, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona explained the reasons for the changes. Said Mhona:
<blockquote>
As the Ministry endeavours to mitigate against road traffic crashes involving kombis, a policy position has been taken to review the current radius-based restrictions for kombis on the issuance of route permits from 120km to 60km with effect from September 3 for operators seeking new permits.
This is one of the many robust policies, regulatory and administrative mechanisms being adopted to improve the country’s road safety regime.
Thus, it implies that all 26-seater kombis and below, will be restricted to offer transport services within a radius of distances not exceeding 60km.
We urge all commuters travelling beyond the 60km radius to use transport services offered by high-capacity buses.
These buses are more predictable, reliable, comfortable and more consistent than the quality of service offered by kombis on long-distance routes.
Buses also have greater leg space and baggage space for long distance travellers than kombis, which makes buses more ideal for long distance journeys.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government is making new rules for kombi taxis. Kombis can only drive within 60 km now, instead of 120 km before. This is to stop accidents and illegal taxis. Big buses can still drive further. Lawmakers say it's a good step but would like even shorter distances for kombis. Buses are safer and more comfortable for long trips. The government wants to make the roads safer and reduce accidents involving kombis.

Parliamentarians Hail Government's Move To Limit Kombi Distances

A 29-year-old man from Rujeko C in Masvingo was on July 27, 2024, fatally stabbed in a kombi altercation involving two women and some men.
The ZRP spokesperson for Masvingo Province, Kudakwashe Dhewa, confirmed the murder of Nyararayi Siyavizwa to <a href="https://x.com/TellZimbabwe/status/1818536664504865017">TellZim News</a>. Dhewa said three suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident. He said:
<blockquote>
I can confirm the murder of Siyavizwa (29) and three suspects have since been arrested in line with the case.
We call upon members of the public to desist from resolving disputes using violence. At no point shall violence substitute dialogue.
</blockquote>
It is alleged that Siyavizwa, along with his two friends Tinotenda Mateo (19) and Andrew Chapwanya (20), boarded a commuter omnibus (Toyota Hiace) on their way home from the Chibuku Neshamwari Festival held at Mucheke Stadium on July 27, 2024.
During the journey, Siyavizwa became embroiled in an altercation with three other passengers in the kombi – Alouis Charles Dhangu Madembo (25) from Vanyoro Village, Chief Nyakunhuwa in Zaka, Rosemary Gave (29) from Garapasi village in Chirumhanzi, Masvingo, and Viola Linia Tasara (34) from Musovi Village, Chief Nemauzhe in Chivi.
When the group disembarked the kombi at the intersection of Corner Kelvin Majange Street and Enard Manyimo Gutsa, it is alleged that one of the accused individuals grabbed Siyavizwa while another stabbed him just below the collarbone with a sharp object. The perpetrators then fled the scene.
Siyavizwa’s friends, Mateo and Chapwanya, tried to assist, but were unable to stop the bleeding, leading to Siyavizwa’s death at the location.
They subsequently reported the incident to the police, resulting in the arrest of Madembo, Gave and Tasara.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A man from Masvingo was killed in a fight on a minibus. The police caught three people in connection with the murder. The man, along with his friends, got into an argument with other passengers in the minibus. When they got off the minibus, one of the passengers stabbed the man. His friends tried to help, but he died from the stab wound. The friends reported the incident to the police, and three suspects were arrested. The police advise people to not solve arguments with violence.

Masvingo Man Fatally Stabbed In Kombi Altercation

One person was injured when a kombi, a Nissan Caravan, rammed into another, at the intersection of Simon Mazorodze Road and Remembrance Drive in Harare on Thursday afternoon.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said the incident resulted in five other vehicles ramming into each other. The ZRP:
<blockquote>
ZRP is investigating a serious road traffic accident which occurred at the intersection of Simon Mazorodze Road and Remembrance Drive, Harare on 09/05/24 at around 1408 hours. One person was injured when a Nissan Caravan vehicle registration number AEB 1040 rammed into another Nissan Caravan vehicle registration number AFQ 8137. Resultantly, five other vehicles rammed into each other.
</blockquote>
Although the police have not officially disclosed the cause of the initial incident involving the two Nissan Caravan vehicles, kombi drivers frequently evade traffic police at undesignated pick-up and drop-off points, often resulting in accidents.
Numerous lives have been lost, and some individuals have suffered serious injuries due to accidents caused by kombi crews fleeing from the police in the central business district.
Critics often express dissatisfaction with the ZRP’s policing methods, particularly the high-stakes cat-and-mouse chases involving fully loaded kombis that show little regard for human safety.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Police Investigate Harare Vehicle Pile-Up Linked To Kombi Incident

A commuter omnibus carrying school children from Mutero High School in Gutu was involved in an accident near Munyati Bridge on Monday morning, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed.
According to a statement posted on the X (Twitter) ZRP page, the kombi was on its way to Masvingo when the driver lost control of the vehicle causing it to overturn three times.
No fatalities have been reported, and the ZRP said all the vehicle occupants are currently being treated at Chivhu General Hospital. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The ZRP confirms that a Toyota Quantum Kombi was involved in a serious road traffic accident at the 106 km peg along Harare-Beitbridge Road near Chivhu whilst carrying school children from Mutero High School in Gutu, the driver and a parent.
The kombi was on its way to Masvingo when the driver lost control and the Kombi overturned three times near Munyati Bridge and landed on its wheels.
The accident occurred at around 1000 hours this morning. All the vehicle occupants are currently being treated at Chivhu General Hospital.
</blockquote>
The Police stated that additional information regarding the accident will be made available at the appropriate time.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mutero High School Learners Injured In Kombi Accident

Kombi operators in Bulawayo have backtracked on refusing ZiG, saying are accepting the new structured currency for fares.
Last week, the same commuter omnibus operators stated that accepting ZiG would put them out of business as they cannot use the currency to buy fuel or spares for their vehicles.
However, Tshova Mubaiwa’s marketing director, Ndaba Mabunda, told the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/commuter-operators-welcome-zig/">Chronicle</a> that they are accepting ZiG. Said Mabunda:
<blockquote>
There is no way we are denying the ZiG. The announcement by ZERA also shows commitment and interest by authorities to balance the equation.
Transport operators also use the ZiG to purchase other goods and services other than fuel. ZiG is our national currency and accepting it must never be an option.
</blockquote>
Bulawayo Urban Public Transport Association (BUPTA) chairperson, Morgan Msipa, said they are accepting ZiG. He said:
<blockquote>
It might improve our lives. We have issues of lack of change and we hope that once the money is in circulation it can be a thing of the past.
Let me make it clear that we are not saying no to the ZiG. We had concerns about fuel stations not accepting it.
</blockquote>
On 04 May, the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) issued a fuel review notice indicating prices of petrol and diesel in both USD and ZiG.
However, this does not necessarily mean that fuel is now being sold in ZiG because ZERA has always done the same for Bond Notes even when they were not accepted at the fuel pump.
According to the notice, diesel now costs ZiG22.24 and US$1.66, while petrol is now selling at ZiG21.15 and US$1.58 per litre respectively.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Bulawayo Kombi Operators Backtrack On ZiG

Commuter omnibus (kombi) operators in Bulawayo are rejecting the newly-introduced Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency, saying they will not be able to buy fuel which is exclusively sold in forex.
Atlas Moyo, the chairperson of Tshova Mubaiwa Transport Co-op, which is one of Bulawayo’s biggest transport co-operatives, told the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/kombi-operators-reject-zig/">Chronicle</a> that they would want to accept ZiG but they may find themselves out of business. Said Moyo:
<blockquote>
ZiG is our national currency and accepting it must never be an option. We however find ourselves between a rock and a hard surface as refusing it is seen as sabotaging Government efforts to revive the economy and accepting it pushes us out of business.
</blockquote>
He said the Government should have fuel stations that sell fuel in local currency where only registered operators can buy fuel.
Moyo said that without such an arrangement, it would be difficult for kombi operators to accept ZiG. He said:
<blockquote>
We don’t want a situation where we will become a dumping ground for the ZiG currency and customers of illegal money changers.
Where are we going to take the local currency if we cannot buy fuel or spares using it? We will engage the relevant Government ministry and department to raise these concerns.
</blockquote>
Also speaking to Chronicle, Morgan Msipha, Bulawayo Public Transporters Association (BUPTA) director of legal affairs concurred with Atlas Moyo, saying accepting ZiG was not a problem, but they fear they will be out of business after failing to buy fuel or spares. He said:
<blockquote>
As we speak right now, we are not sure if any of our fuel garages will accept this currency hence the need for wider consultations with all stakeholders involved.
Let me make it clear that we are not saying no to the ZiG but merely highlighting an obvious situation on the ground, that of fuel stations not accepting it.
</blockquote>
Bulawayo Residents Association (BURA) chairperson Winos Dube sided supported Kombi operators. He said:
<blockquote>
It’s the hard but honest reality of what the operators are saying, yes we all embrace the new currency but if fuel garages are not accepting ZiG, where will they get fuel for them to continue providing the service?
We asked the same questions to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe team, which is on an awareness campaign and I am happy with what they said about measures being put in place by the Government.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Governor John Mushayavanhu on Thursday, 02 May, said it will be in the best interest of fuel stations to start accepting ZiG.
In an interview with Star FM radio, Mushayavanhu said tax returns will be 50 per cent in local currency come June-July and fuel dealers may then find it difficult to lay their hands on ZiG to pay taxes. He said:
<blockquote>
We are in a multi-currency regime, nothing is stopping a fuel dealer from selling their fuel partly in ZiG and partly in any other currency.
If the fuel dealer is not selling the fuel in ZiG, they will find themselves in a situation whereby they will be looking for ZiG, come June or July to pay tax.
I am warning them that when we get to June-July, the ZiG rate may actually strengthen such that they will lose out.
</blockquote>
In the past, the government has set aside service stations selling fuel in local currency but the facility was abused by operators who bought fuel using local currency and sold it on the black market.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Kombi Operators Reject ZiG

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed a fatal road traffic accident that claimed the lives of fifteen (15) people along the Harare-Masvingo Road on Friday afternoon.
In a statement posted on its official X (Twitter) page, the ZRP a kombi (sprinter) travelling towards Masvingo was involved in a head-on collision with a truck travelling towards Harare resulting in the carnage. Reads the post:
<blockquote>
The ZRP confirms a fatal road traffic accident which occurred this afternoon at around 1600 hours at the 53-kilometre peg along Harare-Masvingo Road in which 15 people were killed after a Sprinter kombi travelling towards Masvingo was involved in a head-on collision with a truck travelling towards Harare. Police are currently at the scene.
</blockquote>
The police have indicated that additional information related to the heartbreaking accident will be made available in due course.
This tragic incident serves as a poignant reminder to all road users about the importance of adhering to road rules and avoiding reckless behaviour, which can lead to avoidable loss of lives.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

15 People Killed In Head-on Collision On Harare-Masvingo Road

Three people died while seven others were injured when a kombi they were travelling on overturned along the Masvingo-Mbalabala Road on Friday.
Police said a Nissan Caravan vehicle, which had ten passengers on board, burst a front tyre and overturned several times. Police tweeted:
<blockquote>
The ZRP confirms a fatal road traffic accident which occurred at the 42-kilometre peg along Masvingo-Mbalabala Road on 08/09/23 in which three people died whilst seven others were injured.
A front right tyre of a Nissan Caravan vehicle burst resulting in the vehicle veering off the road before overturning several times and landing on its left side.
The vehicle had 10 passengers on board. The bodies of the victims were taken to Masvingo Provincial Hospital mortuary for post-mortem while the injured were admitted at the same hospital.
</blockquote>
In another road traffic accident that also occurred on 8 September, a Toyota Hiace kombi that was travelling against traffic overturned and landed on its roof in Harare.
Police said the accident occurred at 1.30 PM along Robert Mugabe Road resulting in 12 people sustaining injuries.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Kombi Accident In Masvingo Claims 3

Six (6) people died in a road traffic accident that occurred in Rusape along the Harare-Mutare Road on Friday evening.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the accident to <a href="https://zbcnews.co.zw/2023/07/29/six-perish-in-road-accident/">ZBC News</a>, saying three people died on the spot while the others died on admission at Rusape General Hospital.
Asst Comm Nyathi said that a Harare-bound commuter omnibus side-swiped a haulage truck, as the driver tried to overtake at a sharp curve before Rusape tollgate.
Six other people who were in the commuter omnibus are admitted at Rusape General Hospital after sustaining injuries.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Six People Killed In Rusape Kombi Accident

The government has allowed commuter omnibuses (kombis) back on the roads after banning them in early 2020 to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
According to Statutory Instrument 213A of 2022 promulgated on 21 December 2022, the ban on kombis has been lifted with immediate effect. Reads the Statutory Instrument:
<blockquote>
Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (National Lockdown) (No. 2) (Amendment) Order, 2022 (No. 43)
THE Minister of Health has, in terms of section 8(1) of the Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) Regulations, 2020 (published in Statutory Instrument 77 of 2020), made the following order: –
1. This order may be cited as the Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (National Lockdown) (No. 2) (Amendment) Order, 2022 (No. 43).
2. Transport services, whether intracity or intercity, for the carriage of passengers shall no longer be restricted to the transport services mentioned in section 4(2) of the Public Health (COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (National Lockdown) (No. 2) Order, 2020) (“the principal order”), published in Statutory Instrument 200 of 2020, and all laws with respect to the licensing of those services that were in force immediately before the commencement of the principal order shall recommence in force with immediate effect.
</blockquote>

Government Lifts Ban On Kombis

Two people who were among a group of mourners died while 10 others were injured after a vehicle ferrying them to a funeral was involved in a road accident.
The accident occurred at the 315 km peg along the Harare-Bulawayo road on Thursday.
Midlands provincial acting police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Fungai Ngawagare, confirmed the incident. She said:
Police confirm investigating a fatal road accident where two people died on the spot while 10 others sustained various injuries.
<blockquote>
The accident occurred at the 315 km peg along Harare-Bulawayo road on the 1st day of December 2022.
Tendai Nkala was driving a green Toyota Hiace along Harare-Bulawayo road towards Gweru with eleven passengers on board who were going to a funeral in Lower Gweru.
Upon approaching the 315km peg, the vehicle’s rear right tyre burst and the driver lost control of the vehicle and veered off to the left side.
The vehicle overturned, rolled once and landed on its wheels.
</blockquote>
Asst Insp Ngawagare said two female passengers, identified as Lucia Mpofu (54) and Masuku Mubazisi ( 51) of Bulawayo, died on the spot.
The bodies of the deceased were taken to the Gweru Provincial Hospital mortuary where the 10 others who were injured were also admitted. Concluded Ngawagare:
<blockquote>
The ZRP would like to urge members of the public to ensure that their motor vehicles are serviceable and roadworthy before embarking on a journey.
Drivers are also urged to obey the rules of the road so as to minimize the loss of life through accidents.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/two-killed-and-several-injured-as-kombi-ferrying-mourners-to-funeral-bursts-tyre-and-overturns/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

Two Killed As Kombi Ferrying Mourners To A Funeral Bursts Tyre And Overturns

A Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) kombi conductor was robbed of ZWL$30 000 by three people who had boarded the vehicle early in the morning.
In a statement on their official Twitter page, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said the incident occured in Cowdray Park suburb, Bulawayo, on Sunday. Reads the post:
<blockquote>
Police in Bulawayo are investigating a case of theft which occurred on 17/07/22 at around 0530 hours in Cowdray Park, where three unknown suspects who had been offered a lift in a ZUPCO kombi snatched a satchel with company cash amounting to ZWL$30 000, US$30 and two cellphones from the conductor before vanishing into the darkness.
</blockquote>
In an unrelated incident, police have launched a manhunt for one Beven Mudimu who allegedly robbed a shop of cash at Dindi Business Centre, Marambapfungwe before vanishing. Police said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP is appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of Beven Mudimu who is being sought by the police in connection with a robbery case in which he robbed a shop at Dindi Business Centre, Marambapfungwe, before getting away with US$2 964, ZAR 350 and ZWL 2 700.
Anyone with information to contact CID Murehwa on 0652122107, Officer In Charge CID Murehwa on 0772 596 040, the National Complaints Desk on 0242 703631, or Whatsapp 0712 800 197.
</blockquote>
The incidents come as there has been an increase in cases of robberies across the country.

"Passengers" Steal $30 000 From ZUPCO Kombi

Two police officers were reported to be in critical condition in hospital after being attacked by a mob on Highglen Road in Harare on Friday.
Reports suggest that the police officers were attacked for causing the death of a pedestrian identified as Trymore Chinyamakobvu (54).
Chinyamakobvu was run over by a commuter omnibus while the police officers wrestled the kombi driver while the vehicle was moving.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the incident, saying the two police officers were engaging in an unsanctioned act as they were not deployed for that activity. ZRP posted on their Twitter page, saying:
<blockquote>
The ZRP regrets the fatal incident that occurred this morning at around 1140 hours, along Highglen Road near Mashayabhande Road in Harare, where a man (54) died after police officers who were not deployed for that activity engaged in an unsanctioned act.
The ZRP Command has directed that criminal charges and disciplinary measures be taken against the officers and definitely, the law will take its course. The ZRP passes its deepest condolence to the bereaved family.
</blockquote>

Two Cops Attacked By Mob After Kombi Runs Over Pedestrian

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the death of three people after a commuter omnibus (Kombi) collided with a Mazda 323 vehicle along the Harare – Bulawayo Road on Sunday.
Police said the three who died are, the driver of the Mazda 323 vehicle and the passenger as well as the driver of the kombi. Read a police statement on the incident:
<blockquote>
 The ZRP confirms the death of three people and injury of 18 others in a road traffic accident that occurred at the 133 km peg along Harare- Bulawayo Road on 26/06/22 at about 1500 hours.
A motorist, who was driving a Nissan Caravan vehicle with 18 passengers on board, collided head-on with a Mazda 323 with one passenger on board. The driver of the Nissan Caravan and the two occupants of the Mazda 323 vehicle died on the spot.
</blockquote>
<h2>More: <a class="external text" href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/download/" rel="nofollow">Pindula News </a>is best enjoyed <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/download/?utm_source=PindulaArticles&amp;utm_campaign=DownloadLink">via the App. Download it here</a></h2>

Three People Die On Spot As Kombi Collides With A Mazda 323 Vehicle

The Passenger Association of Zimbabwe (PAZ) and two minors who were injured when a Kombi they were travelling in overturned just after a police roadblock want the courts to ban the use of handheld spikes by law enforcement agents.
The kombi accident occurred in Mutare on 4 May 2022 after police officers manning a roadblock deployed handheld spikes in an attempt to stop the unlicensed vehicle, causing it to overturn.
Four passengers died while eight others were injured in the incident, with eyewitnesses blaming the police for the tragedy.
The Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum on Thursday, 19 May issued a statement on PAZ’s legal challenge to the use of handheld metal spikes by the police. The statement read:
<blockquote>
The Passenger Association of Zimbabwe (PAZ) and two juveniles injured when a Toyota Hiace overturned in Mutare on 4 May 2022 have approached the High Court seeking to have the use of handheld spikes on moving vehicles declared illegal and interdict the police from using such crude policing method.
In an application filed on 19 May, the three are also seeking an order to have the smashing of windscreens declared illegal.
PAZ, a 70-year-old woman Laiza Chikonye and another woman who is representing two juveniles involved in the Mutare accident that was caused by the throwing of spikes by the police are represented by the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum.
After the Mutare accident, Police Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga issued a statement banning the use of the handheld spikes by the police, but the three want the practice to be declared illegal.
Last year, PAZ approached the High Court seeking the same relief, but the court dismissed that application on technical grounds, The Supreme Court however overturned the High Court decision.
Before the statement by the Police Commissioner-General, the police had issued similar statements condemning the use of handheld spikes but continued using them in enforcing traffic regulations.
PAZ and the two women are now seeking an order that binds the police and the Homa Affairs minister.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

Declare Use Of Spikes Illegal, PAZ Pleads With High Court

The Government has doubled the hire fees for commuter omnibuses (kombis) contracted under the Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) franchise.
This comes after hundreds of transporters withdrew their vehicles from the ZUPCO pool citing meagre fees that were offered by the transport utility and a growing payment backlog.
The Ministry of Finance and Economic Development last week increased hire fees for kombis from $10 000 to $20 300 per day to lure back private players and motivate others to join the franchise.
Negotiations for a review of hire fees for privately-owned buses are ongoing and are expected to be completed this week.
In an interview with State media, Local Government and Public Works Minister July Moyo said:
<blockquote>
Last week’s transport challenges were mainly caused by the pulling out of commuter omnibuses under the Zupco franchise.
We have engaged Treasury and they have approved the upward review of the daily hire fees given to the kombis.
So we expect the situation to normalise.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zupco-doubles-payments-to-bus-owners">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

Govt Doubles Hire Fees For Kombis Under ZUPCO Franchise

The Government says it would soon be opening up the public transport system to private players so that they complement services being provided by the State-run Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO).
President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Saturday, 7 May, said that the regulations to liberalise the transport sector will be announced soon. He said:
<blockquote>
Government is proceeding to open up the public transport system for other players in order to complement the services being provided by ZUPCO, in line with the reduction in COVID-19 cases and the subsequent opening up of the economy.
To complement the above measures, Government will allow for the duty-free importation for a period of 12 months for vehicles which meet regulations to be issued.
The liberalisation of the public transport system shall be done under terms and conditions to be published by Government.
The police would need to ensure that law and order is adhered to as the behaviour on our roads needs to be seriously attended to.
Non-adherence to the rules and regulations to be gazetted would not be tolerated.
</blockquote>
In 2020 the Government created a ZUPCO monopoly through the gazetting of Statutory Instrument (SI) 83 of 2020.
It said the move was aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus but critics argue that the ban on private buses and kombis was meant to manage the public transport sector following the January 2019 fuel riots.
In January 2019, transport operators pulled their vehicles off the roads in protest of a 150 per cent fuel price hike that was announced by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The ZUPCO monopoly has, however, brought immense suffering to commuters who have to spend several hours standing in the rain, heat or cold waiting for the woefully inadequate rickety ZUPCO buses.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zupco-doubles-payments-to-bus-owners">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

Govt To Open Up Public Transport Sector To Private Players

The Zimbabwe Union of Drivers and Conductors (ZUDAC) has pleaded with the Government to end the Zimbabwe United Passengers Company (ZUPCO) monopoly.
ZUDAC president Frederick Maguramhinga called for dialogue between transport operators and the Government over the ZUPCO monopoly which he claimed has caused the shortage of transport in the country, especially in urban areas. Said Maguramhinga:
<blockquote>
The crisis in the transport sector has taken another level. There is a stalemate between the government and operators. There is no platform to discuss this because the door is closed.
The SI 83 of 2020 states that no one shall run public transport outside the Zupco franchise. The birth of this arrangement wasn’t inclusive.
It was imposed on operators. We were not given a chance to speak for our members. This system is surviving by force.
</blockquote>
The Government enforced ZUPCO’s transport monopoly in 2020 through Statutory Instrument (SI) 83 of 2020.
It said the move was aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus but critics argue that the ban on private buses and kombis was meant to manage the public transport sector following the January 2019 fuel riots.
In January 2019, transport operators pulled their vehicles off the roads in protest of a 150 per cent fuel price hike that was announced by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The ZUPCO monopoly has, however, brought immense suffering to commuters who have to spend several hours standing in the rain, heat or cold waiting for the woefully inadequate rickety ZUPCO buses.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/05/zupco-monopoly-unsustainable-transporters/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Transport Operators Call For Dialogue Over ZUPCO Monopoly

The Passengers Association of Zimbabwe (PAZ) says the Government should reverse its decision to monopolise public transport.
In 2020 the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works ordered all players in the public transport sector to join the Zimbabwe United Passengers Company (ZUPCO) franchise or take their vehicles off the road.
According to PAZ president Tafadzwa Goliati, the move created a transport crisis, resulting in the emergence of a thriving illegal taxi business (mushikashika). Said Goliati:
<blockquote>
The economy is opening up and transport is an integral part of the economy. There is a need for adequate transport for everyone.
Schools and other sectors of the economy have reopened and some buses which are under ZUPCO have returned to rural areas or highway routes, so there is a need to increase transport operators.
Monopoly in a country like Zimbabwe will only create illegal taxis, and there is a need for the government to rectify the issue.
</blockquote>
A Harare commuter, Enock Hore, accused the Government of making their lives difficult by creating a monopoly in the transport sector. He said:
<blockquote>
Government should be blamed for creating chaos in the transport sector.
ZUPCO buses are not reliable and most of the buses plying urban routes are not in good condition.
Instead of protecting its citizens, our government has a penchant for making our lives more difficult.
</blockquote>
In his pre-recorded Workers’ Day speech, President Emmerson Mnangagwa accused illegal transport operators of “stealing” from workers. He said:
<blockquote>
The second republic is determined to retain the purchasing power of workers, through viable public transport systems.
Government will not stand by and watch while the hard-earned incomes of our workers are being stolen by mushikashika and makoronyera. No!
You, as our workers, deserve an efficient and affordable transport system so that production time, as well as your family time, is not lost in transport queues.
During peak hours, workers must be transported with the greatest ease.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) recently launched an operation targetting mushikashika and illegal hawkers.
Police arrested at least 70 drivers of pirate taxis and their unregistered vehicles were impounded on Sunday.
The operation has worsened the transport challenges being faced by commuters in urban areas, especially in Harare and Bulawayo.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/05/ed-declares-war-on-private-transporters/">NewsDay</a></h4>

"Govt To Blame For Transport Chaos"

A 20-year-old woman was raped by an unidentified kombi driver and his conductor after she had boarded their vehicle on Sunday.
Posting on their Twitter page, police said the suspects gave their would-be victim a lift at 6 PM in a white kombi at Mbudzi Roundabout and proceeded to the Ushewokunze area in Harare where they took turns to rape her. Police said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP is appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of a kombi driver and his conductor who gang-raped a 20-year-old woman in the Ushewokunze area, Harare, after giving her a lift at 1801hrs in a white kombi at Mbudzi Roundabout.
</blockquote>
In an unrelated incident, a group of armed robbers consisting of 14 men and a woman stole US$40 000, ZWL$20 000 and a pistol among other items from a house in Chitungwiza. Police said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP is investigating a robbery case that occurred in Chitungwiza where 14 unknown men and a woman, armed with machetes, knobkerries and hammers pounced at a house in Manyame Park and assaulted the security guard who was on duty at the premises.
The suspects blasted the complainant’s bedroom window with dynamite and attacked the complainant, who was in bed with his wife and demanded cash.
They stole US$40 000, Z$20 000, six cellphones, a pistol with an empty magazine, car keys for an Isuzu KB300 and a Honda Fit vehicle.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

Kombi Crew Rape Woman (20) In Ushewokunze

Hundreds of commuters in Bulawayo were on Thursday left stranded after some Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) drivers staged a strike in protest over salary payment delays.
The kombi owners who contracted their vehicles to ZUPCO told CITE that the parastatal is supposed to pay them ZWL$7 200 per day but they are yet to receive their January payments.
One of the kombi owners who was among several who had gathered at Kelvin depot waiting to be addressed by the ZUPCO management said:
<blockquote>
We have parked our cars because ZUPCO is breaching the contract we have with them.
We had agreed that we are going to receive our salaries within two weeks, but we are not getting the money as it is, we have not yet received our money for January.
They are giving us RTGS while our cars are also cashing in Rands and United States Dollars, all we want is the Government is to look into this issue so that we can also maybe receive half-pay as bond (Zimbabwe dollars).
</blockquote>
She added that kombi owners want ZUPCO to release some of the money in foreign currency so that they can buy spares for their vehicles. She said:
<blockquote>
Our employees are also blaming us for the delay in payment because it’s unfair to give someone RTGS which comes after one month when there is inflation in the country, how do we expect them to survive?
We are struggling to educate our children or even service our vehicles.
</blockquote>
Another kombi owner said that ZUPCO was reneging on an agreement they initially entered into, to pay them after every two weeks. He said:
<blockquote>
When we started we had an agreement that we are going to receive our salary every fortnight but now it goes past one month without us being paid.
The working conditions for our drivers are also not conducive because at the end of the day the driver will be tired and they expect us to employ two drivers but we can’t sustain that kind of arrangement.
</blockquote>
We cannot afford to employ two drivers so at the end of the day we are now risking the lives of passengers.
When contacted for a comment by CITE, ZUPCO Chief Executive Officer, Everisto Madangwa, said he was in a meeting.
<h4>More: <a href="https://cite.org.zw/zupco-drivers-strive-over-salaries/">CITE</a></h4>

ZUPCO Drivers Strike Over Salaries, Again

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ), in conjunction with the Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO), has re-introduced commuter trains in Bulawayo to ease transport challenges that were caused by the banning of private kombis by the government one-and-half years ago.
The NRZ-ZUPCO train service was launched in Harare two months ago. The service is expected to be extended to the country’s third-largest city, Gweru, following its launch in Bulawayo.
NRZ board member Kenias Mafukidze, who stood in for board chairperson, Martin Dinha, said commuter trains are a direct response to the transport challenges in urban areas. Said Mafukidze:
<blockquote>
Commuter trains are a solution to reduce traffic congestion in major cities because of the high traffic volumes currently experienced in Bulawayo and Harare.
</blockquote>
The Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube officiated at the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
She said the re-introduction of commuter trains in Bulawayo indicates the government’s commitment to ensure a safe, affordable and reliable public transport system. Said Ncube:
<blockquote>
This NRZ-ZUPCO undertaking is a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment towards putting people first because they deserve safe, affordable and reliable means of transport.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/bulawayo-commuter-train-re-commissioned/">ZBC News</a></h4>

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