By Patience Gondo
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has warned motorists not to attempt crossing flooded rivers and bridges during the rainy season, saying that failure to follow road safety guidelines continues to put travellers at risk across the country.
ZRP spokesperson Senior Commissioner Paul Nyathi said drivers must exercise maximum caution on all major routes, adding that responsible behaviour on the road remains critical as the country enters the festive season.
The warning follows a fatal road accident that occurred on November 16 2025 at around 1720 hours, at the 155-kilometre peg along the Masvingo–Beitbridge Road, where four people died and 14 others were injured after a Scania bus carrying 26 passengers veered off the road, overturned and landed on its roof.
The injured passengers were taken to Rutenga Clinic, before being transferred to Neshuro Hospital for further management, while the bodies of the deceased were taken to Neshuro Hospital mortuary for post-mortem.
Nyathi said the names of the victims will be released once identification is completed.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims who lost their lives in the road traffic accident.” said Nyathi.
Nyathi further said motorists should comply with all traffic regulations by avoiding speeding and conducting proper vehicle checks before travelling.
He said drivers must regularly inspect tyres, including spare wheels, and ensure that windscreens are clearmand wipers fully functional, especially during the rainy period, to maintain clear visibility.
Nyathi also cautioned road users that broken-down vehicles must be promptly removed from the roads to prevent additional accidents, especially as festive season travel intensifies.
“Road safety is a collective responsibility by all Zimbabweans,” He said .
Passengers travelling in public service vehicles were also encouraged to report reckless conductors and drivers, with police highlighting that passengers should not be threatened for raising safety concerns.
Flooded river accidents are a recurring and serious issue in Zimbabwe leading to numerous fatalities annually.
A notable and tragic event occurred in 2000, when a bus was swept off a bridge near Harare, resulting in 33 confirmed deaths and many missing persons.
Another bus disaster of note and somilar circumstances was the infamous Popoteke Bus Disaster in Gutu when 20 passengers died in their sleep aftera driver attempted a swollen river.
The ZRP said it will continue working with motorists and the public to curb accidents and protect lives.