Driver Jailed After Deadly Masvingo–Mbalabala Road Crash
A Zvishavane magistrate has handed down a custodial sentence to a truck driver whose reckless driving caused a horrific crash that claimed two lives along the Masvingo–Mbalabala Road.
Piniel Ngwarai (34) was convicted of culpable homicide after the court found that his actions behind the wheel directly led to the fatal collision in August last year.
Also Read: Kwekwe Driver Jailed 10 Months for Fatal Road Accident That Killed Four
Excessive Speed Led to Loss of Control
The court heard that on 3 August 2025 at around 4:30pm, Ngwarai was driving a 15-tonne Volvo truck at the 124-kilometre peg when tragedy struck.
A commuter omnibus travelling ahead of him slowed down to make a right-hand turn. Ngwarai, who was driving at excessive speed and following too closely, applied emergency brakes, lost control of the truck and veered into the oncoming lane.
Truck Crushed Smaller Vehicle
The out-of-control truck collided head-on with a Toyota Town Ace before overturning and landing on top of the smaller vehicle.
Two occupants of the Town Ace were trapped in the wreckage and died instantly at the scene, the court was told.
Court Finds Driver Grossly Negligent
In delivering judgment, the magistrate ruled that Ngwarai was negligent on several counts, including speeding under the circumstances, failing to keep a proper lookout and driving too close to the vehicle ahead.
The court concluded that the crash was entirely avoidable and was caused by reckless driving.
Prison Term and Driving Ban Imposed
Ngwarai was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment, with four months suspended on condition of good behaviour. He will serve an effective 14 months behind bars.
In addition, the court cancelled his driver’s licence and barred him from driving for 12 months upon release.
Warning to Motorists
Magistrates warned that dangerous conduct on the roads continues to endanger innocent lives and that the courts will act decisively to protect the public.
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The post Driver Jailed, Licence Cancelled After Deadly Masvingo–Mbalabala Road Crash appeared first on iHarare News.
