Probe launched after 31 people die from Easter weekend crashes

A full investigation has been launched by the Department of Transport after three accidents reportedly killed a total of 31 people, including three children, on the country’s roads since the start of the Easter long weekend yesterday.

According to a report by EWN, the ministry’s spokesperson Ishmael Mnisi said a full investigation into the accidents had been launched, and Transport Minister Blade Nzimande had approached the Road Accident Fund to provide bereaved families with support and comfort.

“Minister Nzimande confirms that the road traffic management corporation and the police are conducting mechanical investigations which involve determining the roadworthy status of the vehicles involved to establish if that contributed to these crashes,” Mnisi said.

Nzimande has also expressed concern over the increase in the death toll as motorists rush to their destinations for the Easter holidays.

The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) said close to 100 people were arrested on Thursday night for drunken driving.

“There were about 100 drivers arrested for drunken driving last night, and some more road side check operations will be held today [Friday].

“Motorists are urged to obey the road traffic rules. Stick to the speed limit, don’t drink and drive, don’t overload vehicles and don’t be reckless on the roads,” JMPD spokesperson Wayne Minaar told EWN.

The first major accident of the Easter weekend happened on Thursday night when a taxi and two other vehicles collided on the R33 near Greytown in central Kwazulu-Natal.

Spokesperson for Kwazulu-Natal Emergency Medical Services Rob McKenzie confirmed yesterday the 14th victim in the horrific crash died in hospital. The other thirteen victims died on the scene.

McKenzie said the accident happened about 20kms from Greytown towards Dundee.

– Additional reporting African News Agency

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