ZRP Rules Out Police Chase in Harare CBD Kombi Accident

By Simba Zimunya

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has dismissed social media claims that police or City of Harare municipal police officers were chasing a Nissan Caravan kombi before it struck a female pedestrian in Harare's Central Business District.

In a clarification issued following the circulation of a viral video, police said investigations established that the incident was a road traffic accident involving a speeding kombi that hit a 46-year-old woman.

The ZRP said consultations with commanders who attended the scene formed part of the investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Driver to Face Charges

According to the police, the kombi driver is being charged with driving without due care and attention.

The police did not disclose the pedestrian's current medical condition or provide further details about the driver's identity.

The clarification follows public speculation surrounding the incident, with claims circulating online that the kombi was being pursued by law enforcement officers when the collision occurred.

However, the ZRP rejected those claims, insisting that neither its officers nor City of Harare Council Police were chasing the vehicle at the time of the accident.

Police Warn Against Spreading Unverified Information

The police urged members of the public to exercise caution when sharing information on social media, particularly where road accidents and other incidents are concerned.

The ZRP encouraged people to verify claims with relevant authorities before circulating posts that could create misleading narratives.

The incident has once again drawn attention to pedestrian safety in Harare's busy CBD, where motorists and pedestrians frequently share congested roads and streets.

While the police clarification addresses claims about an alleged chase, the reported involvement of a speeding vehicle highlights the dangers of reckless driving in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.

Motorists are urged to exercise caution, observe speed limits and remain attentive to pedestrians, particularly in busy urban areas.