CHITUNGWIZA – A BMW X6 which was part of controversial cleric Panganai Passion Java’s entourage struck and killed on the spot, a pregnant woman in a hit-and-run incident along the Harare-Seke highway on Tuesday.
National police spokesperson Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident but said investigations were still going on to determine if the showy preacher was involved in the tragic incident.
“I can confirm there was a fatal road accident which occurred today at around 1208 hours along Seke Road near a Zuva Service Station.
“A BMW X6 vehicle being driven by one Courage Gwezhira which was travelling from town heading towards Chitungwiza hit a woman aged +/-20 who was trying to cross the road from West to East.
“Allegations that Passion Java was involved in the incident are unverified reports currently circulating on social media, investigations are ongoing, and more information will be released in due course,” Nyathi said.
Java has admitted the killer driver was indeed part of his team but denies having been in any of the vehicles in the convoy when tragedy happened.
The preacher later sent his regrets over the incident, saying he was pained by the tragedy.
“It is with much sadness reminiscing the Seke Road accident. The woman deceased could be my sister, wife or mother. Painful painful painful it is,” read a statement he circulated via social media.
Added Java, “Although I wasn’t at the scene, the driver works for me and is acutely traumatised. As of now, I can’t explain the accident as it’s still under police investigation.
“However, we must all respect the deceased and her loved ones by being loving and human as we post comments. Death is no joke and nothing to gain social media stats from.
“I extend my plea to sympathise with her family and the honour of giving her kids scholarships if she left any. I’m still recouping from the whole ordeal but I send my impassioned message to the bereaved.”
Prior to the fatal incident, the public has complained to police over the conduct of Java’s convoy, which has often been seen speeding unnecessarily and in violating of traffic laws.
