Police have confirmed the death of seven schoolchildren after a kombi they were travelling in caught fire at around 2:30 pm on Wednesday, 10 June, at Chirandu Business Centre in Senga, Gweru.
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said the kombi is believed to have been carrying 24 schoolchildren when the fire broke out.
“The ZRP confirms a tragic incident in which a kombi believed to have been carrying 24 school children caught fire on 10/06/26 at approximately 1430 hours at Chirandu Business Centre, Senga, Gweru,” reads the statement.
“So far, seven people have been confirmed dead, while the number of injured persons is still being verified.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the vehicle may have been carrying a jerry can of petrol at the time of the incident.
“Police are conducting comprehensive investigations to establish the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy.”
Eyewitnesses said the seven pupils were from Matongo Primary School.
A witness who was among the first to arrive at the scene said the fire spread rapidly through the kombi, overwhelming attempts to rescue those trapped inside.
The witness added that efforts to open the rear of the vehicle were unsuccessful because the boot was jammed.
Midlands Provincial Education Services Chief Director Jameson Machimbira said learner transport arrangements and safety measures should be improved following the tragedy.
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