Crash victims named

THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has released the names of three people who were among the eight who died in a road traffic accident at the 89km peg along the Harare-Nyamapanda highway on Saturday.

In a statement yesterday, chief police spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba said the three are Lawrence Ngalikutwe (44), Rabson Machingura (47) and Shadreck Timba (66), all from Mutoko.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is deeply concerned with the loss of lives in road accidents. We wish to convey our deepest condolences to the bereaved families.

“We are urging motorists to avoid speeding and exercise caution when travelling,” she said.

Among the deceased were five soldiers.

On Wednesday, the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) held a funeral parade at One Commando Barracks in Harare and bade farewell to the five army personnel.

Overall, eight people died and 31 were injured on Saturday when the ill-fated bus ferrying soldiers from 2 Infantry Battalion was involved in an accident with another bus.

The ZNA members were Sergeant Chimbadzo Dudzai (39), Corporal Gatsi Takemeore (37), Corporal Matanga Learnmore (32), Corporal Aisa Lenny (30) and Private Mudondo Sharmaine Tsungai (26).

Speaking at the funeral parade at One Commando Barracks in Harare, ZNA Commander Lieutenant-General Edzayi Chakanyuka Chimonyo expressed heartfelt condolences to the families on the loss of their beloved ones.

Lt-Gen Chimonyo said the accident occurred while they were on their way from a colleague’s wedding.