Senior RIDA Official Faces Culpable Homicide Charges Over Kariba Ferry Disaster
A Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) district boss has been arrested and remanded in custody over the Kariba ferry disaster that claimed 97 lives. Ignatius Chiome, the Kariba RIDA District Coordinator, appeared before the Kariba Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 26 August 2026, facing a culpable homicide charge.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the arrest and court appearance on Wednesday, identifying Chiome as a Kariba RIDA district coordinator.
“The ZRP confirms the arrest and subsequent appearance in court of Kariba RIDA District Coordinator, Ignatius Chiome (49) on criminal charges of Culpable Homicide. More details will be availed in due course.”
RIDA Boss Remanded Over Kariba Ferry Disaster
Chiome was remanded in custody until Thursday, 27 August 2026, when his bail application is expected to be determined.
The case follows the Mbuya Nehanda ferry disaster on Lake Kariba on 11 August 2026, which left 97 people dead.
The State alleges that overloading, operational lapses and administrative failures contributed to the tragedy.
The 41-year-old ferry was reportedly carrying up to 180 passengers and heavy cargo despite having an authorised capacity of 90 passengers.
More Arrests Could Follow
Investigations into the disaster are continuing.
Prosecutors have indicated that further arrests could follow as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the ferry’s operation and the events leading to the tragedy.
The latest arrest is therefore a significant development in the investigation, with the court process now set to determine Chiome’s bail application.
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