Highlanders Mourn Senior Officials After Fatal Road Crash

Highlanders FC is awaiting an official police report following a fatal road accident involving senior club executives.

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | BULAWAYO

Zimbabwean football has been rocked by reports that three senior Highlanders FC executives died in a road traffic accident on the Bulawayo-Harare Road while returning from the club's Castle Lager Premier Soccer League fixture against Kariba. The deceased have been identified as Executive Chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, Vice Chairman Fiso Siziba, and Treasurer Nkani Khoza.

According to preliminary information, the vehicle carrying the three club officials was involved in a multiple-vehicle collision near Lochard. Early reports indicate the crash involved several vehicles and a cow. A woman who had reportedly been offered a lift also died in the accident.

The circumstances surrounding the crash have not yet been officially confirmed by police.

Speaking after the reports emerged, Highlanders Board Chairman Luke Mnkandla said the club was awaiting a full briefing from the Zimbabwe Republic Police before issuing a comprehensive statement.

"We are still waiting for the official police report before we can comment fully on the incident," Mnkandla said.

He added that the club would issue a formal statement once all the facts had been established.

If confirmed by the relevant authorities, the deaths represent one of the most tragic moments in Highlanders FC's history. Mhlophe, Siziba and Khoza formed part of the club's executive leadership and were responsible for overseeing the administration and strategic direction of one of Zimbabwe's most successful football clubs. Their reported deaths would leave a significant leadership vacuum at Highlanders, popularly known as Bosso, at a time when the club has been working to strengthen its financial and sporting position. Supporters, former players and members of Zimbabwe's football fraternity have begun expressing condolences on social media as news of the accident spread.

The tragedy has also prompted calls from sections of the football community for the Premier Soccer League (PSL) to consider postponing Highlanders' next fixture against Chicken Inn to allow the club, players and supporters time to mourn. However, no official announcement has been made by the PSL regarding any changes to the league programme. Police are expected to release further details once investigations into the cause of the crash have been completed. This is a developing story. Southerton Business Times will update this article as official information becomes available from the Zimbabwe Republic Police and Highlanders FC.

Highlanders FC road accident