THE trial of the driver of a South African-registered haulage truck, which sideswiped a Johannesburg-bound Proliner bus, killing 31 people on the spot and leaving 40 others injured near Chaka business centre along the Harare-Masvingo Highway, started on Monday, with the accused alleging the truck’s steering wheel locked, resulting in the accident.
BY STEPHEN CHADENGA
The accused, Regis Mangwari, made the claims when he appeared before Mvuma magistrate, Tayengwa Chibanda facing 31 counts of culpable homicide and negligent driving. But, a report from the truck’s tracking system produced in court indicated that Mangwari was speeding at the time of the horrific accident, which occurred on April 5 this year. Both vehicles went up in flames on impact, resulting in some of the victims being burnt beyond recognition.
Mangwari’s lawyer, Passmore Mabukwa, however, disputed the truck’s tracking system report, saying he was not privy to the evidence.
The trial continues today with the State calling its second witness.
The State alleges that on April 5, Mangwari, on approaching the 218km peg along the Harare-Masvingo Road, lost control of his tyre-laden vehicle and sideswiped the bus, killing 31 people on the spot.
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Bernard Nyoni is prosecuting the matter.