An unknown number of police officers and prisoners are feared dead after a police van collided with a prisoner vehicle transporting
they were travelling in was involved in an accident on the M1 in Johannesburg.
Among the deceased are reportedly two police officers and some prisoners.
The identities of the victims and the extent of injuries to survivors are not known at this stage.
The devastating crash took place when a Ford Ranger bakkie lost control due to brake failure, launched into oncoming traffic and crashed into a prisoner transport vehicle en route from Alexandra Magistrate’s Court to Sun City.
The collision on the M1 South between Corlett Drive and Athol Oaklands has created a complete traffic gridlock, with vehicles at a standstill.
Authorities are advising motorists to seek alternative routes travelling between Sandton and Houghton if possible.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said the M1 South is closed off at Corlett Drive and there are significant delays on both the M1 South and North.
Police and emergency services are rapidly making their way to the scene to assist, conduct rescue operations, and start an investigation into the incident.
Preliminary indications are that the collision resulted from a road rage incident between occupants of the bakkie and a Mini Cooper.
More details will be provided as the situation unfolds and investigations progress.
Cops and prisoners feared dead following M1 crash in Johannesburg https://t.co/0xH55lqAhL pic.twitter.com/OYjdNTi5zU
— SA Trucker (@rsa_trucker) October 23, 2023
