| 2024/12/08 |
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Media Statement FREE STATE – The South African Police Service (SAPS) has noted a concerning increase in fatalities on the roads of the Free State as traffic volumes rise in anticipation of the festive season. Over the past few days, a series of tragic accidents have resulted in multiple deaths, highlighting the dangers associated with the increased traffic flow during this time of year. Some of the recent fatalities include: At Harrismith six people died on the N3 on 06 December 2024 at about 20:54, after a vehicle and truck collided. The 49-year-old driver of the car survived, but his wife and four children died on the scene. The wife (32), four children aged 17, 14, 9, and one, as well as the truck driver, died on the scene. At Winburg a police sergeant from Trompsburg died when he hit a stray animal at Fred Osborn Road, Winburg. The 49-year-old sergeant was declared dead on the scene. On 07 December 2024 at about 04:10, a pedestrian was hit by a vehicle on the R64 near Booztown liquor store in Spitskop. Two other vehicles then drove over the pedestrian. In Memel, a female pedestrian was hit by a vehicle when she tried to cross the R34 Road on 07 December 2024 at 16:30. In Zamdela a man was hit by a vehicle on the R82 near the Mooidraai informal settlement on 07 December 2024 at about 18:10, when he attempted to cross the road. He was taken to the hospital, where he succumbed to injuries sustained. Three people died when two vehicles collided on the R30 between Allanridge and Odendaalsrus at about 20:00 on 07 December 2024. On the N1 near Koppies today at about 06:00, ten people died and one man was seriously injured when the taxi they were travelling in drove under a truck. Three men and seven women were declared dead on the scene. The truck driver sustained minor injuries. On the N6, about 10 km from Bloemfontein, two people died and one person was seriously injured where three vehicles were involved. Police are investigating culpable homicide cases in all these incidents. “We understand that the festive season is a time for celebration, but it is also crucial to prioritize safety on the roads. We appeal to all motorists to avoid reckless driving, adhere to speed limits, avoid driving under the influence of alcohol, and take necessary breaks during long trips,” said the Provincial Commissioner of the Police in the Free State, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane. SAPS, together with other law enforcement role players, will continue to increase patrols, conduct roadblocks, and implement stringent measures to ensure road safety during this period. The police are also urging communities to remain vigilant and report any road safety violations to authorities. Ends
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