On Saturday, 3 October, a fatal collision occurred on the N8 near Schmidtsdrift in the Northern Cape, involving a Volkswagen Polo transporting members of the Upington public order police. The suspect, allegedly driving a Toyota Fortuner, reportedly collided with the Volkswagen Polo, resulting in a head-on collision, said Northern Cape police spokesperson Col. Cherelle Ehlers.

“The driver of the Volkswagen Polo and a passenger were declared deceased, while a police member sustained injuries.” The driver of the Toyota Fortuner allegedly fled the scene. Police members managed to obtain a partial registration number of the vehicle, which provided a crucial lead in the investigation.”

An investigation led by Lt. Col. Boitumelo Seleke resulted in the suspect vehicle being located at a panelbeating establishment in Kimberley. Ehlers said the man, 48, was arrested on Saturday (10/10) and the vehicle allegedly involved in the collision was seized as part of the investigation.

The suspect is expected to appear in court on charges of culpable homicide, reckless and negligent driving and defeating the ends of justice.

The Toyota Fortuner that was allegedly involved in the accident. Photo supplied 

The arrest comes after other fatal collision incidents reported in Kimberley. On 6 October, a driver was arrested after a crash on Barkly Road that left three people dead and four injured. The driver was reportedly under police guard at a Kimberley hospital after allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.

In a similar case, the Diamond Fields Advertiser reported in April the family of Carmen Jonas, who died in a suspected hit-and-run incident, called for justice after the suspect was released.

Northern Cape provincial commissioner Lt. Gen. Koliswa Otola commended Seleke for his dedication and commitment to ensuring those responsible for serious offences are brought before the courts.

“Fleeing the scene of a fatal collision will not absolve anyone of responsibility. The police remain committed to pursuing every available lead, holding alleged offenders accountable and ensuring that justice is served for the victims and their families,” Ehlers said.

OFM News sm/dg

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