Faith Ndou
ZAKA-A Toyota Hiace commuter omnibus driver fled from the scene after his vehicle was swept off a flooded bridge along the Chipanza-Jerera Road on the 15th of February at around 0830 hours.
The driver, identified as Tawanda was travelling towards Jerera with eight passengers on board when the incident occurred at Muchavhutwi.
According to the police, upon reaching the bridge, the driver found water overflowing across it. Despite the dangerous conditions, he allegedly attempted to cross.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed that as the vehicle reached the end of the bridge, it was swept away by the strong current and carried for approximately 20 metres downstream before being trapped by trees in the river.
After the incident, the driver reportedly fled from the scene. Residents who were nearby quickly rushed to the bridge and assisted in rescuing the eight passengers.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The vehicle was later retrieved from the river on the same day.
Zimbabwe Republic Police Masvingo Province Deputy Spokesperson Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu urged motorists to exercise caution during the rainy season.
He warned drivers against attempting to cross flooded rivers, emphasizing that such actions put lives at risk and can lead to tragic consequences.
