Details about the exact circumstances that led to the crash have not yet been released
A tragic accident on the R101 between Mokopane and Mookgophong in Limpopo has claimed the lives of seven people.
The victims of the car crash include a police officer and six inmates who were being transported in a South African Police Service (Saps) vehicle.
Casualties confirmed
Portfolio Committee on Police Chairperson Ian Cameron confirmed the incident.
“A Saps vehicle transporting inmates was involved in a fatal crash in Mookgophong, claiming the lives of a police officer and six prisoners,” Cameron stated.
The accident occurred on Thursday morning in the Mookgophong area of Limpopo province.
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Road closure and traffic disruption
The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety issued a traffic alert regarding the road closure.
Department spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene announced the closure of the affected section.
“The R101 between Mokopane and Mookgophong [is closed] due to a serious motor vehicle accident with possible injuries and fatalities,” Chuene said.
Alternative routes
Chuene provided alternative routes for motorists to avoid the accident scene:
- Mokopane to Mookgophong: Take the N1 from Zebetiela Weighbridge on R101;
- Mookgophong to Mokopane: Use the Mookgophong on and off-ramp.
The spokesperson further confirmed that traffic officers are on the ground to redirect vehicles around the crash site.
She advised motorists to expect significant delays and plan their routes accordingly.
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Investigation underway
Details about the exact circumstances that led to the crash have not yet been released. However, a picture shared by the department shows a severely damaged truck that appears to have been involved in the accident.
Chuene stated that more information would be made available once the investigations are complete.
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