Mookgophong – A police officer and five inmates were killed on Thursday morning when a South African Police Service (SAPS) prisoner transport vehicle collided with a truck on the R101 between Mokopane and Mookgophong in Limpopo.
SAPS confirmed that the officer, stationed at Naboomspruit Police Station, had collected 11 inmates from Mokopane Police Station for court appearances in Naboomspruit when the crash 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 five inmates,” said SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba.
Six other inmates sustained injuries and were transported to hospital for urgent medical attention. SAPS extended condolences to the families of the deceased.
The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety described the incident as a “serious motor vehicle accident” with multiple casualties.
Department spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene advised motorists to use alternative routes due to the closure of the affected section of the R101. From Mokopane to Mookgophong, motorists should divert to the N1 via 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 information will be released once a full investigation has been completed by the relevant authorities.
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