Tragedy Strikes as Prayer Group Kombi Plunges into Deka River, Several Feared Dead

A tragic accident has struck the Catholic community after a kombi carrying members of the Victoria Falls Catholic Charismatic Renewal group reportedly plunged into the Deka River in the early hours of this morning while returning from an all-night prayer gathering at St John’s Makwa Mission.

Sources at the scene said at least 10 bodies had been recovered by rescue teams as emergency operations intensified at the accident site. Five survivors were reportedly rushed to Hwange Colliery Hospital, where they are said to be receiving treatment in critical condition.

The victims are understood to have been travelling back from a spiritual vigil when the vehicle veered off the road and plunged into the river under circumstances that were still unclear by the time of reporting.

Emergency personnel, police and rescue teams remained at the scene conducting search and recovery efforts, amid fears the death toll could rise as operations continue.

Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the cause of the accident, while investigations are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the devastating incident.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the Victoria Falls Catholic community, with anxious relatives and church members awaiting further information as rescue efforts continue.

By Witness A Phiri