A massive fireball lit up the night sky in Bulawayo on Monday after two fuel tankers caught fire in the Donnington Industrial Area, triggering loud explosions that were felt across several surrounding suburbs.
The incident occurred along Goderich Avenue near Masiyephambili Road, close to a service station, where the two tankers, both reportedly carrying fuel, were engulfed in flames. While no fatalities have been reported, the blaze caused widespread alarm and significant damage in the area.
Bulawayo’s Chief Fire Officer, Mhlangano Moyo, confirmed that emergency services were deployed for several hours as firefighters worked to contain the inferno and prevent it from spreading to nearby structures.
Fire crews described the scene as extremely dangerous, with repeated explosions complicating containment efforts. Multiple fire tenders were dispatched as authorities struggled to bring the fire under control late into the night.
Although investigations are still underway, early indications suggest the incident may be linked to illegal fuel siphoning, a practice that has become increasingly common amid fuel shortages and economic pressure. Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause, but sources at the scene indicated that the fire may have started during an unauthorised attempt to extract fuel from one of the tankers.
Residents in Tshabalala, Nketa and Bellevue reported hearing powerful blasts, with some describing the shockwaves as resembling a minor earthquake. People living closer to the industrial area said windows were shattered by the force of the explosions, sending many into the streets in panic.
The incident has once again highlighted the growing risks associated with fuel theft and informal fuel handling, particularly in industrial zones close to residential areas. Fuel-related fires have proven especially difficult to control due to the volatility of petroleum products and the limited capacity of municipal emergency services.
Authorities have urged the public to stay clear of the affected area as investigations continue and damage assessments are carried out.
