The police investigative division Ipid has taken over investigations in Saturday’s (9/5) accident near Bela-Bela as both drivers were police members. One state vehicle was driven by a member of the protection security services and the other by an off-duty police member.

A woman and her child were allegedly killed when the car driven by a protection security services member struck them. Preliminary investigations indicate the woman was attempting to cross the highway with her two children, one of whom was strapped to her back, said police.

They were attempting to get to the other side of the road to attend to an earlier incident in which the woman’s husband was allegedly struck by the vehicle driven by the off-duty police officer. He was declared dead on the scene.

“Two separate cases of culpable homicide are under investigation,” said national police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe. “The circumstances surrounding both accidents form part of ongoing police investigations.”

Statements were obtained from those present at the scene. “The police extend their deepest condolences to the bereaved family during this difficult time,” she added.

Motsoaledi also extended his condolences to the family. “In line with standard protocol, (his) close protector and the driver immediately stopped at the scene and remained there until police and emergency medical services arrived,” Mathe added.

The mother and her baby sustained fatal injuries in the second collision and were declared dead. The second child survived, although authorities have not yet disclosed details about the child’s condition.

South African insurance provider 1st for Women has tips on what to do when you get into an accident:

• Stay calm and safe: the most important thing to do is to focus on safety and stay calm.
• Assess and document the accident: the next step is to assess the situation and gather the necessary information.
• Exchange information: the next key step is to exchange information with the other driver.
• Help anyone who has been hurt: it’s critical that you don’t move the injured party.
• Notify the police and your insurer: it’s a legal requirement to report any road accident to the police.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

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