LIMPOPO – The Tzaneen police have opened cases of culpable homicide and attempted murder following a crash that claimed the life of a 55-year-old passenger and left several others injured on Tuesday, April 15.

According to police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the driver of a white Nissan bakkie was transporting 11 passengers from a hiking spot to Nkowankowa when he noticed a suspicious white hatchback branded Taxi Patrol with no visible registration number parked near the last stop sign out of town.

“The suspects got into the Toyota and followed the bakkie. When the driver refused to stop, they allegedly pursued him until the bakkie lost control near a filling station after a strange sound was heard,” said Ledwaba.

The vehicle reportedly crashed into roadside pillars, causing some passengers to be thrown out before coming to a stop in the middle of the road. The hatchback then turned back and drove away towards Tzaneen.

Emergency services and police responded to the scene. One male passenger was declared dead on arrival and nine others were taken to a local hospital in critical condition.

The provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe condemned the incident and ordered a manhunt for the suspects.

“We will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice,” said Hadebe.

Anyone with information that may assist in the investigation is urged to contact the investigating officer, Lieutenant Colonel Tsakane Ngwenya, on 082 469 0931, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or use the MySAPSApp.