A picture shared by The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety showing a truck with significant damage that appears to have been involved in the accident. Image Credit: Supplied
(The Post News) – A police officer and five inmates have died in a car crash involving South African Police Service (SAPS) transport vehicle outside Mookgophong, Limpopo on Thursday morning.
The crash happened while a police officer from Naboomspruit Police Station was transporting 11 inmates from Mokopane Police Station to Naboomspruit. He was on the R101 taking the inmates to their court appearances.
SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba confirmed the “horrific” crash, adding that the police officer and 4 of the inmates died. The other inmates were rushed to nearby hospitals for injuries.
The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety has also confirmed the severity of the crash. The department spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene has urged motorists to use alternative routes while the R101 remains closed.
Chuene suggest travellers from Mokopane to Mookgophong to use the N1 via the Zebetiela Weighbridge, and those heading from Mookgophong to Mokopane to use the local on- and off-ramps. Officers from the Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety monitor both routes to control traffic and avoid additional accidents.
The Department advised motorists to expect delays and plan accordingly until the road opens.
SAPS is contacting the families of individuals affected and extending condolences to the deceased’s loved ones. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the accident. Chuene confirmed that the relevant parties will provide the public with more details once they finish compiling a full report.
This is a developing story.
Please share your thoughts, contact Lukhona via email: journalist-lukhona@thepostnews.net
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