Three Undocumented Ethiopians Detained After Fatal Mkushi Accident

The Department of Immigration in Mkushi District has detained three undocumented Ethiopian nationals following a fatal road traffic accident that occurred on Tuesday night in the Mpalasha area. 

The incident involved a Toyota Mark X, registration BCE 2016 ZM, which was travelling from the north towards the south with four occupants.

Immigration Chief Public Relations Officer, Namati Nshinka, says the vehicle was carrying three Ethiopian national, two males and one female, along with a driver believed to be a Zambian citizen. 

He said the driver, who has not yet been identified, died on the spot and his body has been taken to the Mkushi District Hospital mortuary for formal identification.

Mr. Nshinka added that two of the passengers, 26-year-old Edebo Mesore Konde and 25-year-old Dalclo Erefi Eliyas, were treated at the hospital and later discharged before being detained for illegal entry and stay.

“The Department of Immigration has detained the two discharged individuals at Mkushi Correctional Facility, while the third Ethiopian national remains hospitalised but in stable condition,” Mr. Nshinka said.

He added that investigations are underway to establish ownership of the vehicle and identify the deceased driver.

“Further updates will be provided as investigations progress,” Mr. Nshinka noted. 

Authorities say the case reflects ongoing challenges related to illegal migration and the risks faced by individuals being transported under unsafe and clandestine circumstances.