Zambian Police Launch Manhunt for Hit-and-Run Driver After Fatal Nakonde Crash

Zambian police have launched a manhunt for Paul Munuka, a driver from Kayambi Village in Mungwi District, who is accused of causing a fatal road accident that claimed the lives of four people, including a juvenile, and left 19 others injured in Kapwila Village, Nakonde District.

According to Muchinga Province Police Commissioner Dennis Moola, the accident occurred when Munuka, whose age is yet to be confirmed, lost control of a Mitsubishi Canter truck carrying 23 passengers. The vehicle reportedly swerved off the road and overturned due to reckless driving. The driver fled the scene immediately after the incident.

Commissioner Moola identified the deceased as Rhodah Kalyondo, 40, Margaret Njokololo, 52, a woman only identified as Eliza and a juvenile, Augustine Chanda, whose age remains unknown

All four victims sustained fatal injuries, with Chanda suffering severe head trauma. Their bodies have been taken to Nakonde District Hospital mortuary pending postmortem examinations.

Among the injured are several children, including a 1-year-old who suffered general body pain. Two other juveniles, aged 3 months and 1 year, miraculously escaped unhurt.

The accident marks one of several serious crashes in the region this week, highlighting growing concerns over road safety in the Muchinga Province.

Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that may lead to the arrest of Paul Munuka as investigations continue.