The Khoisan king and his family have been struck by tragedy after a fatal accident on Friday claimed the life of the Khoisan queen.

The accident occurred on the N9 road between Colesberg and Noupoort. The vehicle carrying the royal couple and three passengers suffered a tyre burst, causing the driver to lose control. The vehicle overturned, leading to the queen’s fatal injuries.

According to police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam, all five occupants, aged 18 to 57, were rushed to Mannie Dipico Hospital in Colesberg. “The Noupoort police are investigating a culpable homicide following the tragic accident,” said Sam.

Earlier today, Sam stated that while the queen was sadly pronounced dead, the king, who was injured, is currently recuperating well. The other occupants, who sustained slight to serious injuries, have since been discharged.

Prior to the fatal collision

The Khoisan group has been camping at the Union Buildings since December 5, 2018, to protest for First Nation recognition and land rights. King Khoisan had been returning to Pretoria to resist an eviction notice when the accident occurred.

The Khoisan King spoke to Pretoria Rekord on Friday as he anticipated to arrive in Pretoria by 18:00 in order to fight off an alleged eviction process that would see him forced out of the gardens at the National key point, close to the Nelson Mandela Statue, yesterday.

“I will only be arriving at [the] Union Building 17:00-18:00. I am travelling from Port Elizabeth [Gqeberha]. Our stance is clear, we will not vacate the Union Buildings,” said King Khoisan SA in response to the eviction notice, prior to the crash.

The group has faced controversy over the years:

• In 2019, they rejected the Traditional and Khoisan Leadership Act.
• In 2022, the king and three subjects were arrested for allegedly growing and dealing cannabis.
• In October 2022, they walked 50km to raise awareness of housing issues.
• In March 2023, they received their fourth 30-day notice to vacate the space.

Noupoort police have reminded road users to remain vigilant and inspect vehicles before trips.