Horror crash kills cop, five inmates en route to court

A police officer and five inmates were killed on Thursday morning when a South African Police Service (SAPS) vehicle transporting inmates to court crashed on the R101 between Mokopane and Mookgophong, Limpopo police confirmed.

The officer, stationed at Naboomspruit Police Station, had collected 11 inmates from Mokopane Police Station for court appearances in Naboomspruit when the incident occurred.

“We can confirm, as the South African Police Service in Limpopo, that there was a horrific accident along Naboomspruit Road this morning, in which a SAPS member attached to Naboomspruit Police Station lost his life, along with four inmates,” said SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba.

Six other inmates were injured and transported to hospital for medical attention. SAPS extended condolences to the families of the deceased.

The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety confirmed the crash involved a serious motor vehicle accident with multiple injuries and fatalities.

Department spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene advised motorists to use alternative routes due to the closure of the affected section.

From Mokopane to Mookgophong, motorists should use the N1 from the Zebetiela Weighbridge. From Mookgophong to Mokopane, use the Mookgophong on- and off-ramps.

“Our officers are stationed in both directions to redirect traffic,” Chuene said. “Please expect delays and plan your route accordingly. For real-time updates, consider checking ViaMichelin.”

Chuene added that further details would be released once a full report is compiled by the relevant stakeholders.

*This is a developing story*

simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za

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