Gwanda Kombi Explosion: 12 Confirmed Dead as Police Name Victims

BULAWAYO – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed that 12 people died in the deadly kombi explosion along the Bulawayo–Beitbridge Road, as authorities begin identifying victims and investigating the cause of the blast. The incident occurred on April 16, 2026, at around 12:45PM near the 27-kilometre peg close to Esigodini, when a Toyota Quantum carrying passengers suddenly exploded.

Police said nine of the 12 victims have been positively identified by their next of kin, bringing some clarity to families affected by the tragedy.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police releases the names of nine of the 12 victims who were positively identified by their next of kin,” the ZRP said in a statement.

The identified victims include:

• Thabani Moyo (37), Old Lobengula, Bulawayo

• Nobuhle Mdlongwa (37), Entumbane, Bulawayo

• Oscar Mdlongwa (44)

• Sicelesile Mabhena, Nkulumane 5, Bulawayo

• Sibusiso Mabhena (5), Nkulumane 5, Bulawayo

• Mhlupeki Limkani Sibanda (36), Nkulumane 5, Bulawayo

• Tedious Ncube

• Precious Moyo (36), Pumula North, Bulawayo

• Promise Brian Gabadela

Authorities said efforts are ongoing to identify the remaining three victims.

The confirmed figure of 12 fatalities follows earlier reports suggesting up to 18 people may have died in the explosion. Initial estimates were based on the severity of the blast and the extent of destruction at the scene, where debris and human remains were reportedly scattered over a wide area. Investigators now believe the revised number reflects verified identifications rather than initial assumptions.

Police have not yet established the cause of the explosion, with forensic investigations currently underway.

“The cause of the explosion is yet to be established. More details will be released in due course,” the ZRP said.

The deployment of specialised investigative teams is expected as authorities work to determine whether the explosion was mechanical, accidental, or linked to other factors.

All recovered bodies have been transported to United Bulawayo Hospitals' mortuary for post-mortem examinations. Officials say forensic analysis will play a key role in confirming identities and establishing the exact cause of death. The explosion is among the most devastating incidents recorded in recent months along the busy Bulawayo–Beitbridge corridor, a critical trade and transport route linking Zimbabwe to South Africa. Transport safety experts say the tragedy highlights the need for stricter vehicle inspections and enhanced safety monitoring on public transport routes.

Police say more updates will be released as investigations progress, with authorities working to piece together what led to the fatal explosion. For now, families of the victims are left mourning as the nation awaits answers.

Gwanda kombi explosion