The matter has been remanded to 15 March for bail investigation and for verification of his home address, among other documents, including his licence.

Dressed in a cream top and an army green jacket, Sithulile Zulu, stood quietly in the dock with his head slightly bowed and his hands in front of him.

According to Jacaranda News, he is facing two charges, one for negligent and reckless driving and another for failure to comply with the duties of a driver following an accident.

His side-tipper truck crashed into several vehicles on the M41 in Durban on 6 March 2023. He fled the scene after the crash but was arrested after surrendering himself to the police later.

The accident in peak hour traffic injured 22 people, of whom three were in critical condition.

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The provincial Department of Transport, Community Safety and Liaison counted a total of 49 vehicles that were involved, reports SABC News. Three people, including a pregnant woman, were rushed to the hospital for urgent care following the crash.

Commenting on the crash, MEC Sipho Hlomuka said the accident was unnecessary and could have been avoided.

"We have ordered an investigation so that those responsible could be held accountable. As a government, we have a targeted programme focusing on trucks," he said.

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Hlomuka said there was a growing challenge with the behaviour of tipper truck drivers. "We will continue engaging with the freight and logistics sector to adhere to the laws.

"We also wish a speedy recovery to all those affected by this accident, including those who suffered trauma and physical injuries."

OFM News