Zim GBC News | Midlands Correspondent
MBERENGWA – A 19-year-old man from Mberengwa district died in a horrific incident early last week after he was run over by a goods train while lying on the railway line.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, 5 March 2026, along the railway line between Poland and Ngezi. The victim has been identified as Author Nkiwani (19) of Village Chatira under Chief Mataruse.
Midlands Provincial Police Spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, confirmed the tragic event, stating that the driver of the train tried to alert the man but was unable to stop the locomotive in time.
“It is alleged that the driver observed the now deceased lying on his stomach across the railway line at the 86-kilometre peg between Poland and Ngezi,” said Inspector Mahoko.
“The driver sounded the locomotive horn in an attempt to alert him, but the deceased did not respond.”
The train was being operated by Donald Tachiona (41), who was travelling from Rutenga to Somabhula. Police reports indicate that the train ran over the man, resulting in his decapitation.
A sudden death report was filed with the police following the incident, and investigations are currently underway to determine the exact circumstances that led to the tragedy.
In the wake of the accident, Inspector Mahoko issued a stark warning to the public regarding the dangers of using railway lines as resting places. He emphasized that trains, due to their immense weight and momentum, cannot stop quickly.
“We are appealing to members of the public to avoid sitting or lying on railway lines,” he said. “Committing suicide should never be taken as a way of solving problems.”
The authorities continue to urge anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.
Zim GBC News encourages the public to prioritize their safety and mental well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek help from professional counselors or trusted community members.
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