Pretoria - At least six people have died in a head-on collision at the R503, just five kilometres outside of the Rooigrond Correctional Centre, in the North West.
A correctional services’ car was transporting prison officials on Monday afternoon when it collided with a police vehicle.
Leaders of the Justice and Correctional Services Department have expressed shock and disbelief at the tragic death.
The Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Michael Masutha, said: “I am shocked and pained by this tragic accident. It has tragically cut short the lives of our correctional officials and a policeman, leaving their families grappling with this immense loss.”
The new minister said the accident has left the criminal justice system poorer.
“These officials, together, had given decades of invaluable experience in delivering correctional and security services to our people. We express our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased officials and can only pray to God to soothe their painful hearts,” Minister Masutha said.
Equally shocked Transport Minister Dipuo Peters said the loss of lives calls on all road users in South Africa to be vigilant at all times on the roads and to obey all the rules.
“I call on all South Africans to heed this call and help us make a difference and save lives,” said Minister Peters, a view that was also expressed by North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo.
Premier Mahumapelo has urged all road users to be considerate to ensure their own safety and that of other road users in order to reduce the carnage on public roads.
The South African Police Services is investigating the incident. Though details are still sketchy, a case of culpable homicide is being investigated.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has also dispatched a team of crash and incident reconstruction and investigation experts to determine the cause of the crash.
Acting National Commissioner Nontsikelelo Jolingana said they will do their best to support the families of the deceased officials as well as their colleagues.
The families of the deceased are also encouraged to consult with the Road Accident Fund (RAF) for assistance and support during this period. - SAnews.gov.za
