MILLICENT HUNGWE
ZRP has released alarming statistics revealing a significant increase in road traffic accidents during the 2025 Heroes and Defence Forces Holidays, from August 11 to 13.
According to the ZRP press statement, the number of road traffic accidents surged from 149 in 2024 to 196 in 2025, resulting in 24 deaths and 96 injuries.
The statistics show a disturbing trend, with fatal crashes rising from 8 to 13, and the number of people injured increasing from 77 to 96.
ZRP National Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that the accident increase was caused by reckless driving, speeding, mechanical faults, and overtaking errors.
These figures have prompted authorities to urge motorists to exercise extreme caution, particularly during public holidays when traffic volumes are typically high.
Commissioner Nyathi has highlighted several incidents that occurred during the holidays, including a horrific accident on August 11, at 2:00 AM along the Mutare-Masvingo Road, where a hired Toyota Quantum vehicle transporting Zion Christian Church congregants from Gokwe to Chimanimani veered off the road and overturned, claiming six lives and leaving 16 others injured.
Other incidents include a Toyota Hilux overturning at the 87km peg along the Masvingo-Mbalabala Road, killing two people, and a Toyota Hiace kombi suffering a tyre burst along Bindura-Shamva Road, resulting in four fatalities and 17 injuries.
A 16-year-old girl was also killed after being run over by a Nissan Diesel UD40 lorry along Checheche-Rimai Road.
The ZRP has commended public service vehicle operators for their cooperation but stressed the need for continued vigilance.
Motorists are urged to prioritize regular vehicle servicing to ensure roadworthiness, especially when carrying passengers or goods.
The Commissioner also warned against speeding and unsafe overtaking, urging the public to wear reflective clothing for better visibility at night.
Drivers are reminded to strictly follow road rules and regulations to help reduce the toll of road traffic accidents.
