Eight people perished and dozens were injured when a bus carrying Anglican churchgoers caught fire en route to an annual gathering, Zimbabwean police reported on Monday.
The incident occurred as the bus was transporting pilgrims to the Bernard Mizeki Annual Festival in Marondera. The fire resulted in eight passengers being “burnt beyond recognition,” according to police spokesman Paul Nyathi.
Nyathi also confirmed that over 50 people sustained injuries, with 14 requiring hospitalization. Two individuals are reported missing, and DNA tests will be conducted to identify the deceased.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Nyathi assured that more details would be provided as the investigation progresses.
Reverend Edwin Selemani of the Anglican Church expressed his condolences, wishing “healing to the injured and comfort to the bereaved,” and added, “May God grant rest to the souls of the departed.”