Story by Jeremiah Gora
Seventy seven people were killed in road accidents across the country during the festive season from 15 December to 26 December 2024, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has said.
Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi announced the statistics in a statement, showing a rise in fatalities this year as the same period recorded Seventy one deaths over the same period last year.
Commissioner Nyathi further highlighted that 401 people were injured in 1 211 accidents in the period under review, compared to 393 injuries in 1 454 accidents during the same period in 2023.
Furthermore, this year’s festive season recorded an increase in number of fatal accidents recording a figure of 65, 15 more as compared to the same period last year.
Commissioner Nyathi said fatigue and negligent driving were the major causes.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police has established that, some accidents are caused by fatigue and negligent conduct on the part of drivers. Most road traffic accidents involved private vehicles where either drivers or passengers perished,” he said.
The statement announced that 22 December 2024 recorded the only major road traffic accident involving public service vehicles where three buses collided and two people died.
Statistics showed that Christmas Day recorded the highest number of deaths, whereas Boxing Day recorded the highest number of people who were injured.
“On 22nd December 2024, 106 road traffic accidents were recorded where seven people were killed while 38 were injured.
“On 25th December 2024, 104 road traffic accidents were recorded where 13 people were killed 16 people were injured.
“On 26th December 2024, 87 road traffic accidents were recorded where 11 people were killed while 40 were injured.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that drivers should avoid speeding and overtaking in circumstances that are clearly not safe to do so. Above all motorists are implored not to overload vehicles when traveling on the country’s roads,” he said.
He advised the public to report errant drivers on the roads at any nearest Police station or call National Complaints Desk number 0242 703631 or WhatsApp on 0712 800 197.
He concluded by advising that the police will continue to enforce all road rules and regulations without fear or favor.
