A botched truck hijacking and subsequent multiple deaths on the slopes of Kranskop has triggered the unprecedented response of some of the nation’s most powerful politicians.
Transport Minister Blade Nzimande and Premier Stan Mathabatha, were this week still trying to come to terms with the accident, from which a truck driver allegedly tried to speed off from alleged hijackers.
Limpopo SAPS Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nneke Ledwaba, said two other vehicles were involved in the accident which claimed the lives of six people, among them a seven-month-old baby.
Another vehicle , killing the driver and other occupants.
He has since confirmed that six people, including a seven-month old baby, died following the accident.
Chilling details have emerged around the mayhem, with the police confirming bursts of gunfire from the alleged hijackers, as the driver sped off to safety.
Mathabatha was on record, saying that he had learnt “with shock” of criminal activity taking place along the N1 between Kranskop and Mokopane.
Both the premier and Ledwaba have confirmed that upwards of 40 people have been killed following road accidents on the latter stretch of highway within the period of a month.
Mathabatha and Nzimande were scheduled to preside over a mass prayer service to be held at Modimolle’s Ephraim Mogale Stadium on Sunday 18 November.
The alleged hijackers were by Wednesday 14 November still at large.
Anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspects is requested to contact Captain Richard Boshomane at 079 894 5501, the police toll-free number 0860010111, Crime Line SMS 32211 or contact the nearest police station.
Lizzy Bapela and Mzamane Ringane
— The BEAT
