Chinhoyi mayor in horror crash

By Farai Chikore

MAPINGA – CHINHOYI Mayor, a councillor and their chauffeur escaped death following an accident along the Harare-Chirundu highway. The Mayor, Councillor Owen Charuza, who represents Ward 6 in council and former Chinhoyi mayor Alderman Willy Nyambe and council staff, Bramwell Katanda, were involved in a serious road traffic accident near Mapinga escarpment on their way to Harare while on council business.

While the three escaped death by a whisker, the council-owned Nissan Hardbody vehicle was damaged beyond repair after it was rammed from behind by a haulage truck. It swerved, hitting another vehicle which was in front.

Council spokesperson, Tichaona Mlauzi, confirmed the accident but could not provide more details, saying he was off duty. Assistant provincial police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Aggary Jaure, said he was waiting for further details from police in Mapinga.

Mayor Charuza was rushed to Mutorashanga Clinic for medical attention after sustaining injuries to his hand, chest and neck. Mutorashanga referred him to Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital. He was treated and later discharged on the same day. He is recovering well.

Alderman Nyambe had minor injuries while Katanda was limping as a result of injuries sustained during the accident.