Chitungwiza Horror Crash Driver That Claimed 17 Faces Justice as Trial Kicks Off Today
The trial of Desire Madiviko (56) the truck driver accused of causing the horrific Chitungwiza crash that claimed 17 lives on July 22 is set to begin today at the Chitungwiza Magistrates Court.
Madiviko, employed by Silimus Cold Chain Company in Chitungwiza, faces culpable homicide charges stemming from the deadly accident that shocked the nation.
He is represented by his lawyer, Raymond Kadani, and holds a valid Zimbabwean driver’s licence for classes 2, 4, and 5.
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According to the State’s case, the tragedy unfolded around 10am as Madiviko drove a South African-registered Nissan UD Coroner truck (horse registration number KH28RW GP) towing a box-body trailer (registration number KC05FB GP) along Seke Road, heading north toward Harare’s Central Business District.
Moments after passing St Mary’s junction, the truck allegedly lost control. Its left wheels slipped onto the dirt shoulder while the right wheels remained on the tarmac.
In a desperate attempt to regain control, Madiviko swerved but the massive vehicle veered sharply, mounted the road island, and ploughed into two pedestrians, killing them instantly.
As reported by The Herald, the out-of-control truck then crossed into the opposite lane, smashing head-on into an oncoming Nissan Caravan commuter omnibus (registration ACZ 6937) driven by Tatenda Silia, who was carrying 17 passengers.
The impact was catastrophic the truck overturned and landed on its left side, crushing the kombi beyond recognition.
Fifteen people, including the kombi driver, died on the spot, while three others along with Madiviko and his passenger sustained serious injuries.
Both vehicles were completely destroyed, with the commuter omnibus declared beyond repair.
Prosecutors allege that Madiviko’s negligence behind the wheel directly caused the devastating crash that claimed innocent lives and left a trail of destruction in its wake.
