The speaker of Umuziwabantu Local Municipality, Petros Shebi, appeared in the Port Shepstone Magistrate’s Court on September 1 on charges of drunk driving and two counts of culpable homicide.

KZN police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Paul Magwaza said Paddock police arrested a 55-year-old man (Shebi) after it was alleged that he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into two women employed as flag personnel at a road construction site on the N2 near Paddock on August 31.

The women were identified as Nonjabulo Mpume Langazane (38) and Sindiswa Maria Mbotho (44).

According to Magwaza, Shebi was charged with drunk driving and culpable homicide.

He was released on bail. The case was postponed to October 12 for further investigation.

Meanwhile, the Umuziwabantu Local Municipality extended its condolences to the families of the women who lost their lives in the accident that involved an official vehicle assigned to the speaker of the municipality.

“Details surrounding the incident remain sketchy at this stage, and the circumstances are subject to investigation by the relevant authorities. The municipality respects the rule of law and will fully cooperate with the authorities as their investigation unfolds. We appeal for sensitivity and respect for all those affected by this tragic incident. No further comment will be issued at this stage, pending the investigation by the relevant authorities,” said municipal spokesperson, Bruce Jalubani.

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