HARARE – At least 27 people were killed in separate road traffic accidents over the just-ended Easter holiday, a slight decrease from 29 last year, police reports have revealed.
However, despite the slight decrease in associated deaths, there was an increase in fatal road accidents, from 16 last year to 26 this year.
According to a statement by police Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, there was also a marginal decrease in all forms of road traffic accidents, from 288 in 2023 to 286 in 2024.
Police reports also indicate a rise in casualties, with the number of injuries climbing from 145 in 2023 to 159 in 2024.
Nyathi highlighted the primary factors contributing to road accidents.
“A comprehensive analysis by the police has revealed that most accidents recorded during the Easter holiday are attributed to speeding, inattention, misjudgment, overtaking error, and failure to observe road rules and regulations by drivers.
“The police did not record major fatal road accidents during this year’s Easter holiday as most fatal road accidents involved private motor vehicles and in some instances, pedestrians were victims.
“In one of the fatal road traffic accidents recorded on 30th March 2024 along Percy Iboston Road near rail crossing, Cowdray Park, Bulawayo a yet to be identified man was killed after being hit by a Honda Fit vehicle,” said Nyathi.
He urged all road users to exercise caution, adhere strictly to speed limits, and prioritise safety while traveling, particularly during holiday periods.
