LYDENBURG – Two employees of Potato Seed Production on the Long Tom Pass were killed on impact on Friday night and another critically injured when a white Amarok bakkie allegedly overtook a truck on a solid white line.
According to Mr Jakkie and Ms Louné Mellet of the Potato Seed Production, the workers were on their way back from Steelpoort when the accident occurred.
“They had not even clocked out and were still on duty. As far as we understand, the Amarok apparently overtook a truck on a solid line and collided head-on with our workers.” According to Mr Deon Broekman of Fire and Rescue of Rapid Response, a Toyota bakkie was transporting five Potato Seed Production workers, three of whom were on the back.
He told the newspaper that speed and reckless driving played major roles in the accident. The driver of the white Amarok as well as the driver and front passenger of the Potato Seed bakkie only sustained minor injuries. All three have since been discharged from hospital. Two of the occupants on the back of the bakkie were killed and one seriously injured.
The pass was closed for several hours after the accident to clear the scene. The names of the deceased have not been released. Communications officer of Lydenburg SAPS, Sgt Elizabeth Mogoa, confirmed that a case of reckless driving had been opened against the driver of the Amarok.
“We urge road users to be patient when travelling. Please refrain from speeding and reckless driving, especially over the festive season,” she said.
