Mphoko accident driver arrested

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) says the driver of a truck that was involved in an accident with Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko has been arrested and charged for negligence.

The charge follows police investigations on the accident involving Mphoko's vehicle and another motorist that occurred on Saturday along Enterprise Road near the Forestry Commission in Harare.

Police Spokesperson, Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba described as inaccurate, some media reports that the incident was stage-managed.

"After investigations, the attending officer concluded that the Toyota Hiace truck driver had failed to secure his load, remained in a dangerous position and drove without due care and attention. Drivers are warned not to immediately stop in the middle of the road if they encounter unforeseen situations. We encourage the media to report objectively after sourcing for facts on accidents especially those involving senior government officials," she said.   

On Sunday, Vice President Mphoko ruled out foul play, describing the accident as genuine.

He said the driver of a truck applied emergency brakes after dropping something, and this is what led to the accident.

"The truck was carrying wedding material, and after dropping what looked like a pot, passengers seated at the back of the truck then hit the roof signalling the driver to stop," said Mphoko.

The accident comes barely two months after another Vice President, Emmerson Mnangagwa's vehicle was involved in an accident with a staff bus belonging to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals along Herbert Chitepo road in Harare.