A Zimbabwean truck driver, employed by SMI Bulk Transport of South Africa, is reportedly in custody after a tragic accident in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) while en route to Mokambo.

The driver, identified as Jeremiah Kamuterera (37) from Chinhoyi, Mashonaland West province, has been detained following the incident, which claimed the lives of 18 individuals, according to reports from concerned drivers in the DRC.

“Despite the tragic incident, Kamuterera has allegedly not received assistance from his employers and is in need of urgent financial support to secure his release.

“The accident resulted in the loss of 18 lives and left six individuals with serious injuries. Kamuterera’s current detention status and lack of assistance have raised concerns among his peers,” a media report quoted an anonymous source.

Kamuterera is said to be facing the ordeal alone in a foreign country. Although he was initially held at Mokambo Police Station, it remains uncertain whether his case has proceeded to court.