Kuwadzana Kombi Driver Jailed and Banned for Life After Deadly Crash Claims Eight Lives

Kuwadzana Kombi Driver Jailed 3 Years and Banned for Life After Deadly Crash Claims Eight Lives

A 42-year-old commuter omnibus driver, Wellington Ngona, has been sentenced to three years in prison by the Mbare Magistrates’ Court after being found guilty of culpable homicide following a horrific crash that claimed eight lives last year.

Also Read: Police Confirm The Ghastly Kuwadzana 7 Turn-Off Accident: Here Is What Happened

Tragic Accident at Busy Harare Intersection

The fatal accident occurred on October 31, 2024, around 5:30 a.m., at the intersection of Harare–Bulawayo Road and First Street. Ngona, who was driving a Toyota Hiace carrying 13 passengers, attempted to make a right turn into Bulawayo Road when his vehicle was struck by an oncoming haulage tanker.

The violent collision caused the kombi to overturn, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. Five passengers died upon arrival at Sally Mugabe Hospital, while three more succumbed to injuries later at Parirenyatwa Hospital.

Also Read: Kuwadzana Kombi Accident Latest: Driver’s Identity Revealed as He Faces Long Prison Sentence

Court Finds Driver Negligent

Investigations revealed that Ngona was negligent for failing to keep a proper lookout and failing to take reasonable action to avoid the collision. The court ruled that his reckless conduct led directly to the loss of eight innocent lives.

In addition to the prison sentence, Ngona received a lifetime driving ban for commuter omnibuses and heavy vehicles. The magistrate also imposed a six-month suspension from driving any other motor vehicle.

Authorities Urge Caution on the Roads

The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) has once again urged public transport operators to uphold discipline on the roads.

“Public transport drivers must prioritize safety over speed and profit — road discipline saves lives,” said the NPAZ in a statement following the sentencing.

The fatal accident adds to a growing number of preventable road tragedies involving commuter omnibuses in the country.