Calls for vigilance on KZN roads after 11 lives lost

The KZN Department of Transport has called for increased vigilance on the roads after 11 lives were lost in two accidents over the weekend.

The first accident occurred at around 8.30pm on Saturday on the R34 near Melmoth.

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Transport HOD Siboniso Mbhele said, ‘It was reported that the accident occurred between a bakkie and a light motor vehicle. Five occupants believed to be from the light motor vehicle succumbed to their injuries and died on scene.

‘Another accident occurred on the N3 between Pietermaritzburg and Durban, where 10 occupants, including a child, were involved in the gruesome accident.

‘It is alleged that the accident occurred when the driver was trying to avoid another vehicle and lost control.’

He said five people died on scene and another person died en route to hospital. The remaining occupants were taken to RK Khan and Northdale hospitals for medical attention.

‘Upon closer investigation, police discovered that the occupants of the vehicle were suspected copper thieves as an undisclosed amount of copper was found in their vehicle. A case of theft was opened at the Hammarsdale police station,’ continued Mbhele.

‘We are deeply saddened by the loss of so many people in one weekend. Eleven lives is not a small number and such major crashes are heart-breaking.

‘We have commissioned investigations into both accidents and, where action needs to be taken, it will be done without hesitation.

‘We will continue to increase vigilance over the winter holidays.’

Locally, on Sunday night.

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