Zimpapers Logo

Herald Reporter
The number of people who have been killed in road traffic accidents since the start of the festive season on December 15 has risen to 41.
Police national spokesperson Chief Superintendent Paul Nyathi yesterday said the number of deaths was less than that recorded over the same period last year.

“Forty-one people have been killed in 537 accidents compared to 66 who were killed in 581 accidents over the same period last year,” he said.

So far, 182 people have been injured in accidents as compared to 361 in 2012. Chief Supt Nyathi said 781 vehicles had been impounded for various defects, and police have issued 51 442 tickets to motorists.

Masvingo has the highest number of deaths so far (14), followed by Manicaland (seven). No road traffic accident deaths have been recorded in Matabeleland to date.

The Christmas and New Year holidays are usually associated with a high number of road accidents. Chief Supt Nyathi urged motorists, particularly public transport operators, to abide by the road rules and exercise extreme caution on the roads.

He warned public transport operators not to overload vehicles. “We will not hesitate to take stern action against anyone who disregards traffic laws,” he said.

“We are appealing to them to exercise caution.”