Published: 4 hours ago

A fatal head-on collision at the notorious Susunje River blackspot along the Harare-Chirundu highway has claimed the lives of Patrick Samboko, operations manager at FBC Chinhoyi branch, and his wife Oline Samboko (nee Mudzimba), who had just been promoted to deputy headmistress at Chinhoyi Government Primary School.

The accident occurred on Tuesday night as the couple was returning from a church service in Banket, approximately 20 kilometres east of Chinhoyi. Their Honda Fit collided head-on with a haulage truck transporting building slats from Kariba to Harare, killing both on the spot.

According to the truck driver, he was side-swiped by another vehicle travelling ahead of the Sambokos' car, causing him to lose control and crash into the couple's vehicle. The truck responsible for the initial incident reportedly fled the scene.

The Sambokos are survived by four children, including a one-and-a-half-year-old baby, leaving the Chinhoyi community in deep mourning. Residents and business leaders described the couple as humble, devoted, and God-fearing.

"We have been robbed of one of the finest couples in Chinhoyi. May their souls rest in peace," said Godfrey Mavhankeni, chairperson of the Mashonaland West Show Society. Mourners have gathered at the couple's residence in Mzari low-density suburb to pay their respects.

The Susunje River blackspot has become increasingly deadly, claiming several lives over the past two months. In August, a head-on collision between a private vehicle and a haulage truck resulted in four fatalities, while late last month, a learner was killed after being hit by a car at the same location.

Authorities have reiterated calls for increased caution along the stretch, which continues to pose significant risks to motorists.
- Sunday Mail

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