Two Tactical Response Team officers from Manguzi in northern KZN lost their lives in a single-vehicle crash in eMalahleni, Mpumalanga, on Tuesday (May 5).  

The Zululand Observer reports they were en route to Pretoria when the accident occurred. 

The BMW they were travelling in overturned, crashed through the barriers, hit a tree and rolled down to the Olifants River just after 22:00, according to the Witbank News.  

It is believed that one of the policemen was flung out of the vehicle and the other was trapped inside. 
 
Giepie Fisher from Van Wettens Recovery says that the operation to retrieve the vehicle lasted eight hours. 

“The continuous rain made the recovery very difficult,” Fisher says. 

According to national police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the officers were travelling to Pretoria for court testimony. 

“As part of the Manguzi Task Team in KZN, they were actively involved in combatting cross-border crimes. The SAPS extends its deepest sympathies to the colleagues of the fallen members, particularly those within the Manguzi Task Team who worked closely with them in the fight against crime,” says Mathe. 

Acting national SAPS commissioner Lieutenant General Phuleng Dimpane says the loss of these dedicated officers is a devastating blow to the organisation. 

“They served the country with commitment and courage. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and loved ones during this painful time.”

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