Motorist runs over traffic cop at roadblock

A BULAWAYO police officer survived death by a whisker after he was hit by a car while manning a roadblock along Masiyephambili Drive.

The Officer Commanding Traffic in Bulawayo, Superintendent Maxwell Chikunguru yesterday confirmed the incident which occurred on Monday.

Supt Chikunguru said the driver of the vehicle - a Toyota Hilux registration number ABG 9218 - only stopped when he realised he had injured a police officer.

"I can confirm that Sgt Kumbani was hit by a car and sustained injuries while manning a roadblock. The driver might not have been speeding but he did not want to stop at the roadblock. He only stopped after injuring Kumbani. The driver ferried him to the hospital where he was treated and discharged," he said.

"Motorists don't have respect for police officers that's why we've such incidents happening. They should exercise caution. If someone gets to a roadblock and is instructed to stop they should comply."

Supt Chikunguru said the driver is expected to appear in court next week.

Last year Sergeant Godsave Chingwe died at Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo from head and chest injuries he sustained after a pirate taxi driver fleeing arrest dragged him with the door of his vehicle for about 100 metres before slamming him head first on the road.

Meanwhile, the police have expressed concern at the increase in road traffic accidents along major roads and highways in the country.

National police spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba said a majority of the accidents could be avoided.

"As police, we're appealing to the motoring public to observe road rules and regulations. They should respect life and exercise extreme caution when approaching roadblocks and other police checkpoints. Pedestrians are also urged to walk on the right side of the road and to be alert when crossing roads," she said.

Snr Asst Comm Charamba said that on March 23, three people died while six others were injured in separate road accidents.