13 Zimbabweans Killed In A Bus Accident In South Africa
Tragedy struck as Thirteen Zimbabweans lost their lives and 26 others sustained injuries in a devastating collision involving a coach from Simplex Bus Company and a haulage truck on the N1 Highway near Hex River Pass in Western Cape, South Africa. The incident occurred on Saturday evening, sending shockwaves through the community.
As emergency services rushed to the scene, fears mounted over the possibility of the death toll climbing higher, with several of the injured passengers listed in critical condition. The bus, en route from Harare to Cape Town, was still some 130km away from its destination when the accident tragically unfolded.
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The driver’s attempt to evade the collision proved fatal, as he tragically lost his life on impact while reportedly trying to exit the bus. The heartbreaking incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers faced on the roads, prompting calls for enhanced safety measures to prevent such devastating accidents in the future.
An online news organisation, SA Trucker, last night said: “Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene, where survivors were rushed to Worcester Hospital for urgent medical attention. The extent of their injuries varied, with some in critical condition, fighting for their lives. The cause of the accident is not known at the moment, however, authorities have since launched investigations into the tragic crash.”
Ms. Esther Mudambo, Zimbabwe’s consul general in Cape Town, assured that further information regarding the accident would be provided in due time.
Meanwhile, the injured individuals have been transported to Noodsentrum Hospital in the Western Cape for medical attention.
Mr. Ricardo Mackenzie, the Provincial Minister of Mobility for the area, expressed his heartfelt condolences to the grieving families affected by the tragedy.
“I wish a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured. I also want to thank the dedicated teams who responded to these tragic incidents, working long hours under difficult circumstances.”
Dr. Samson Nhanhanga, chairman of the Zimbabwe Passengers Transport Organisation, expressed profound sadness over the tragic loss of lives among the passengers.
“We are also in constant touch with the bereaved families in consoling them and making sure all the necessary paperwork is done.
“The association will also continue to update Zimbabweans on any development. At the same time, we continue to urge our crews to be responsible and obey the rules of the road all the time to save lives.”
