Highway accident, two people die on the spot

Two people died on the spot while seven others were seriously injured and admitted to hospital when a commuter omnibus they were travelling in burst its left rear tyre before overturning along the Masvingo-Beitbridge highway on Wednesday afternoon.

At least 10 others escaped with minor injuries in the accident that occurred at the 52 kilometre peg. The Toyota Hiace kombi was travelling towards Masvingo with 19 passengers, including the crew.

Police yesterday said the seriously injured were detained at Masvingo General Hospital.

Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Peter Zhanero said the deceased's bodies were taken to Masvingo General Hospital mortuary.

The names of the deceased were being withheld until their next of kin are informed.

Insp Zhanero said on the fateful day, the kombi, which was being driven by Alfios Chekai of Chipindu communal lands in Chivi was heading towards Masvingo city.

He said Chekai lost control after the tyre burst, resulting in the vehicle overturning.

Insp Zhanero urged drivers to exercise caution on the roads, saying police were concerned about the recurrent carnage along the Masvingo-Beitbridge highway.

The accident occurred near where 21 people perished in April last year when a Megalink coach veered off the road and crashed into a tree.