The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that the official vehicle of Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi was involved in a fatal accident on the N1 near Bela-Bela in Limpopo.

The incident occurred on Saturday, 09 May 2026, while the state vehicle was being driven by a member attached to the Protection Security Services (PSS).

According to a preliminary police investigation, a woman was attempting to cross the road with her two children, one of whom was strapped to her back.

The family was allegedly trying to reach the scene of an earlier accident in which the woman’s husband had reportedly been struck and killed by a vehicle driven by an off-duty police officer.

Police said the woman and her children were then involved in a collision with the official vehicle transporting the minister.

The mother and baby died at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash.

SAPS said the Minister, his close protector, and the driver stopped immediately after the collision and remained at the scene until emergency services and police arrived.

“Statements were subsequently obtained from those present at the scene,” SAPS said.

Authorities have opened two separate culpable homicide cases linked to the incidents, while investigations continue into the full circumstances surrounding both accidents.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has taken over the investigation because both drivers involved are SAPS members.

SAPS has extended condolences to the bereaved family following the tragic incidents.

Visit MDNtv YouTube Channel for our video content