Traffic officer killed by truck on N4 at Middleburg weighbridge

A traffic officer was killed after being hit by a truck on the N4 at the Middelburg weighbridge on Monday, 9 January.

The officer was directing trucks to the weighbridge when the accident happened.

Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security, and Liaison, identified the deceased as Gijimane July Nkabinde, he was 57.

The investigation into the events leading up to this tragedy is underway.

Mpumalanga’s MEC for Community Safety, Security, and Liaison, Vusi Shongwe, has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and colleagues.

Shongwe has urged the officer’s colleagues in law enforcement not to be disheartened by the incident.

As part of honoring Nkabinde, he believes they should continue to work harder to deal with errant drivers.

He stated that truck drivers must always cooperate with law enforcement officers.

This is because their orders supersede all other signs on the road.

“We have noticed that some truck drivers are at times not working with our officials. There is a problem of attitude among some truck drivers who constantly disregard the rules. The attitude of some of these drivers must change and trucking companies must instill in their employees the culture of considerate and courteous driving,” Shongwe said.