A fatal crash on a road between Malelane and KaMhlushwa has prompted Mpumalanga authorities to intensify efforts to clamp down on illegal drag racing, reports the Lowvelder.

The crash occurred on Sunday (October 25) along the D1657 Road at Ritcher’s Hoek in the Nkomazi area. An eyewitness linked the incident to illegal drag racing.

The vehicle’s two occupants were taken to Shongwe Hospital, where one was treated for minor injuries and the other later died.

Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison Jackie Macie condemned illegal drag racing, warning that reckless driving puts motorists, pedestrians and spectators at risk.

Macie targets illegal racing hotspots

Macie called on the police and traffic authorities to step up enforcement, particularly at known illegal racing hotspots across the province.

“We cannot allow our roads to be turned into arenas of lawlessness and dangerous stunts that cut short the lives of innocent people,” Macie said.

He described illegal drag racing as a serious violation of traffic laws and warned that drivers who endanger lives would face the consequences.

The MEC also extended his condolences to the deceased woman’s family and called for those responsible to be held accountable.

Macie urges residents to report illegal racing

Macie urged community members to report planned or ongoing illegal racing to the authorities to help prevent further tragedies.

Authorities warned motorists against using public roads for high-speed competitions, stressing that reckless driving can have fatal consequences for people who are not involved in the racing.

Investigations into the Nkomazi crash are ongoing.

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