POLOKWANE – Transport Minister, Fikile Mbalula, says the collision which killed the Deputy Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Bavelile Hlongwa and two other people is a stark reminder of the urgency with which motorists must re-imagine road safety as a nation.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) reports that an initial crash occurred when a vehicle overturned and went through the centre median into oncoming traffic at the Carousel Plaza. Several people stopped to assist, including EMS and Bakwena Security Personnel.
“Hlongwa and her protection team also stopped to assist when a Mercedes Flatbed truck crashed into the scene, killing three people and injuring several others,” their statement read.
The Transport Ministry says investigations by RTMC as well as the South African Police Service is underway.
“South Africa has lost a diligent and dedicated servant of the people. Just as she lived, Deputy Minister Bavelile Hlongwa died helping others. This tragedy is a stark reminder of the urgency with which we must re-imagine road safety as a nation. Our collective commitment to reversing the trend and arresting the escalation of the number of deaths on our roads must be greater,” Mbalula said.
