By Dumisani Ndlovu
Gweru, Zimabawe-A devastating bus accident occurred in Gweru on Wednesday morning, claiming the lives of six people and leaving several others injured. The Harare-bound Hungwe Coaches bus, which was traveling from Bulawayo, overturned at a roundabout near Fairmile Hotel.
Eyewitnesses reported that the driver, who was injured in the incident, complained of brake failure before the accident. “As we approached the roundabout, the driver said he was losing control of the brakes, and the bus suddenly sped up. It then overturned, and I managed to escape,” said one eyewitness.
Officer Commanding Gweru District, Chief Superintendent Dr. Leon Marongedze, confirmed that the driver failed to negotiate the roundabout. “I’m currently at the scene of the accident, where a Hungwe Coaches bus crashed while attempting to navigate the Fairmile roundabout. Unfortunately, six lives were lost, and the injured have been transported to Gweru Hospital for treatment.”
Chief Superintendent Marongedze urged vehicle owners to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and discouraged night driving. “We strongly advise against night driving and urge vehicle owners to ensure their vehicles are in good working condition to prevent such accidents.”
Rescue teams responded swiftly to the accident, retrieving six bodies from the wreckage. Gweru City Council CEO, Felix Muguti, confirmed the toll and praised the prompt response of emergency services.
According to the National Police Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, 21 people were injured in the accident, with 10 of them admitted to Gweru Provincial Hospital for treatment.
The injured passengers are currently receiving treatment at Gweru General Hospital. The cause of the brake failure is yet to be determined, and an investigation into the accident is underway.
