The driver of the Tanzania-registered cargo truck that smashed into an oncoming minibus, killing 18 people on the spot, yesterday, has been arrested, Police have said.

Samuel Chambi, a Tanzanian national, was arrested last night in Gikondo, a Kigali suburb, after fleeing from the accident scene in Kabuga ka Musha in Rwamagana District, earlier on Monday, according to Inspector Police Emmanuel Kayigi, the Eastern Region Police spokesman.

He told The New Times Tuesday that Chambi had since been returned to Rwamagana where he is receiving treatment for injuries.

"The driver was found in Gikondo, a place that is usually frequented by long-distance drivers. He is currently admitted at Rwamagana Hospital…he had to be brought back where the offence was committed as investigations continue,” he said.

Janvière Uwizere, a nurse at the emergency care department, confirmed the driver had sustained minor injuries. 

"Contrary to earlier rumours that he had lost an arm in the accident, he suffered minor injuries and is in stable condition. He sustained minor bruises on the right shoulder and that is all,” she said.

It was not immediately clear how he had fled from the scene of the accident.

The collision occurred just before 11 a.m. when Chambi lost control of the cargo truck, ramming into the oncoming minibus from Kigali.