By Meditation Mposi
Four learners from Makota Primary School in Bikita were seriously injured after jumping from a truck which had offered them transport but later diverted the route on November 11.
Masvingo Acting Provincial Police Spokesperson Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu confirmed the matter and advised learners to avoid free transport.
“I confirm the incident that happened in a dust road between villages 30 and 31 in Mashoko, Bikita and I advise learners to desist from boarding free transport from strangers. I also urge drivers to stop and offer assistance whenever an incident occurs,” said Patinyu.
Circumstances are that on November 11 at around 1730hours, four learners from Makota Primary School were going home when a truck driver who was driving towards Mashoko, Bikita stopped and offered them transport. They were made to seat in the loading box.
The truck then diverted the route and the learners tried to stop him in vain. They later jumped from the truck and sustained injuries. Police later arrived, found the truck already gone and took the learners to Mashoko Mission Hospital for medical assistance.
Two learners who had minor injuries got treated and were discharged while the other two were admitted. One was injured on the knees and elbows. The other had a swollen head and some injuries on the knees and elbows as well.