One dies as bus plunges into river

Bulawayo Bureau

A bus crossing Mletshane River in Gwanda District on Monday missed the flooded bridge and plunged into the river before being swept away, killing one person while a three-month baby is still missing amid fears she drowned.

The bus, travelling from Bulawayo to Gwanda, was carrying 75 passengers.

Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Loveness Mangena said at about 3pm, the bus belonging to Green Horse Bus Comany attempted to cross the Mletshane River.

“Unfortunately, the front-left wheel of the bus missed the bridge, causing the vehicle to plunge into the river and it was swept away.”

Insp Mangena said one passenger, identified as 33-year-old Sthembinto Dube of Mawaza Village in Gwanda District, died on the spot.

The baby girl remains unaccounted for and is feared to have drowned.

Emergency services, including the police, attended the scene.

Insp Mangena urged bus drivers and other motorists to avoid crossing flooded bridges and rivers.

“Pedestrians are also advised to be vigilant when crossing rivers,” she said.

Green Horse Bus Company owner Mr Patrick Dube yesterday expressed devastation following the accident.

 “I got to know that my bus was involved in an accident through a WhatsApp communication from a South African number. I was so devastated to learn that a woman died on the spot while an infant went missing,” he said.

Mr Dube said his company will assist the affected passengers as has been the norm over the years.

He said the driver involved in the accident is among the company’s most trusted senior drivers.

“The driver should not have crossed a flooded river and this should be a warning to all bus drivers and other motorists,.

He said passengers should also take responsibility for their safety and caution drivers whenever they feel their lives are at risk.