Truck Driver Dies After Vehicle Plunges Into River Near Zvishavane

MIDLANDS – A 52-year-old truck driver has died after the heavy-duty vehicle he was driving veered off the road and plunged into a river before becoming fully submerged in an accident that has renewed calls for road safety vigilance in Zimbabwe. Midlands provincial police spokesperson Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the fatal incident, which occurred on 10 April 2026 at around 4 pm along the Masvingo–Mbalabala Road at Ngezi River Bridge in Zvishavane.

The deceased has been identified as Silas Nyengetera (52), a truck driver from Tarusenga Village under Chief Mazungunye in Bikita. According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Nyengetera was driving a heavy-duty Shacman truck towing two trailers when the accident occurred.

“He had no passengers with him. On approaching the 113km peg at Ngezi River Bridge, the truck veered off the road and fell into the river,” said Mahoko.

Police said the truck became completely submerged, trapping the driver inside the vehicle.

Emergency responders from ZRP Zvishavane, supported by the Sub-Aqua Unit, attended the scene and launched a recovery operation.

“The truck got submerged in the water. The driver was trapped inside the vehicle,” Mahoko added.

The body was retrieved the following day, 11 April, at approximately 2:30 pm after a prolonged search effort.

The Masvingo–Mbalabala Road is a key transport corridor often used by heavy commercial vehicles, and accidents involving trucks have raised concern among road safety advocates.

Transport safety expert Engineer Gift Mugabe said such incidents highlight the need for increased caution, especially near bridges and waterways.

“Heavy trucks are more difficult to control, particularly when approaching bridges or sharp curves. Speed management and vehicle condition checks are critical in preventing such tragedies,” he said.

Authorities have urged motorists, particularly long-distance and heavy vehicle drivers, to exercise caution and adhere to road safety regulations.

“We continue to urge drivers to be vigilant at all times and to observe road rules to prevent unnecessary loss of life,” Mahoko said.

The incident adds to a growing number of fatal road accidents recorded across Zimbabwe’s highways, with police reiterating the importance of defensive driving and regular vehicle maintenance.

Zvishavane accident