By Malawi Freedom Network
Two people have died while 17 others sustained injuries following a tragic road accident that occurred on Saturday morning at Panyemba along the Chikangawa–Jenda M1 Road in Mzimba District.
The deceased have been identified as Atupele
and Uchindami Chawinga.
Confirming the incident, Mzimba Police Station spokesperson Maria Banda said the accident involved a Zhong Tong bus, registration number CP 229, driven by 25-year-old Raphael Gondwa, and a Scania articulated truck, registration number DA 10981/CP 10844, whose driver is currently on the run.
According to Banda, the bus was traveling from Mzuzu to Jenda carrying multiple passengers when it collided with the truck.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the truck was on the wrong side of the road while attempting to overtake a broken-down vehicle, leading to a head-on collision with the oncoming bus,” Banda said.
She added that Nakamba, a student at the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST), and Chawinga sustained severe head injuries and were pronounced dead upon arrival at Mzimba District Hospital.
Another passenger, Ester Bennet, sustained head injuries and is currently receiving medical attention, while 16 other passengers suffered minor injuries and were treated as out-patients.
Police have since launched a manhunt for the truck driver, who fled the scene after the accident. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
