BY LOMQHELE NXUMALO
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has revised the death toll of the horrific Bulawayo-Beitbridge Road explosion to 12 fatalities, down from the initial estimate of 18. The tragic accident, which occurred on April 16, 2026, has officially been declared a State of Disaster.
According to a press statement released on April 17, the incident took place at the 27-kilometer peg near Esigodini at approximately 12:45 PM. Investigators established that the Toyota Quantum was carrying 11 passengers when it exploded.
The ZRP has released the names of nine victims who have been positively identified by their next of kin:
- Thabani Moyo (37) from Old Lobengula, Bulawayo
- Nobuhle Mdlongwa (37) from Entumbane, Bulawayo
- Oscar Mdlongwa (44)
- Sicelesile Mabhena from Nkulumane 5, Bulawayo
- Sibusiso Mabhena (5) from Nkulumane 5, Bulawayo
- Mhlupeki Limkani Sibanda (36) from Nkulumane 05, Bulawayo
- Tedious Ncube
- Precious Moyo (36) from Pumula North, Bulawayo
- Promise Brian Gabadela
The bodies of the deceased were transported to the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) mortuary for post-mortem examinations. Three victims remain yet to be positively identified.
While the tragedy has been declared a national disaster to facilitate emergency support and resources, the core cause of the explosion remains a mystery. Forensic teams continue to work on the site to determine what triggered the blast within the passenger vehicle.Authorities have urged the public to remain patient as they continue with the investigations.
