Some people never learn A kombi was swept away while crossing a flooded river with passengers on board

• By Staff Reporter
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• 654
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• February 16, 2026

Some people never learn | A kombi was swept away while crossing a flooded river with passengers on board.

 section!It is incredibly tragic and frustrating to see these avoidable incidents continue to happen. This image captures a recurring nightmare in Zimbabwe, where drivers often underestimate the power of moving water, sometimes with fatal consequences.

​Based on current reports from the 2025/2026 rainy season, Zimbabwe has been facing a severe flood emergency.

​Recent Similar Tragedies

​While the image appears to show a black "kombi" (commuter minibus), a very similar and devastating incident occurred recently:

• ​Filabusi Tragedy (January 2026): A vehicle (a Toyota Noah) was swept away while attempting to cross the flooded Tshangamutope River.
• ​The Outcome: Nine people drowned, including seven adults and two children.
• ​The Cause: In a bizarre and preventable twist, the driver had stepped out to check the water level, but a passenger reportedly took the wheel and drove into the current, leading to the vehicle being submerged.

​As of mid-February 2026, the Department of Civil Protection (DCP) has reported:

​Safety Reminder: It only takes about 30cm (1 foot) of fast-moving water to sweep away most small cars, and 60cm (2 feet) will carry away most SUVs and trucks. If you can't see the road markings or the bridge surface, turn around, don't drown.

• ​Death Toll: Over 109 people have died nationwide due to rain-induced incidents, including drownings and lightning strikes.
• ​Infrastructure: At least 21 bridges have been damaged or destroyed, making rural travel extremely hazardous.
• ​Risk Factors: Many drivers feel pressured by "impatient passengers" or the need to meet daily income targets, leading them to take life-threatening risks at flooded low-lying bridges.

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