HARARE, Zimbabwe — A tragic incident occurred on Thursday when a minibus taxi ignited on a highway in southwestern Zimbabwe, resulting in the loss of approximately 18 lives, according to police reports.

Police spokesperson Paul Nyathi indicated that officials were still in the process of confirming the precise number of fatalities, noting that the current estimate stands at “approximately 18.”

The vehicle reportedly “burst into flames” while traveling on a highway close to Bulawayo, the nation’s second-largest city. Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire, as stated in a separate police announcement.

Minibus taxis are a common mode of public transportation in Zimbabwe, frequently operating at over their official passenger limits.