VANDERBIJLPARK – Six first and second-year students from North West University tragically lost their lives in a car accident yesterday morning (August 18).
According to the institution and police reports, two more students were hospitalised after surviving the accident.
Sinethemba Tshabale, Kananelo Mokhele, Katlego Ramodibe, Olwethu Khojane, Simphiwe Nzimande, and Tshepo Maboea lost their lives not far from their residency.
Meanwhile, Zuko Maphisa and Thembile Mbelekane survived the crash and remain in hospital.
Speaking to Ster, Sedibeng district police spokesperson Captain Teboho Lephoto said a culpable homicide docket is under investigation.
“Investigations are underway following after a group of NWU students who died over the weekend in a motor vehicle crash. It’s unclear at this stage how many occupants were in the vehicle at the time, but it has been certified that six students have died and others are critical at the hospital,” he said.
In a statement widespread on social media, Professor Sibusiso Chalufu – Acting Executive Director: Student Life and DVC at the Vanderbijlpark campus, said: “It is with heavy heart that I announce the tragic news of an accident that involved eight of our students in the early hours of Sunday, August 18. Six of the students sadly lost their lives, while two remain in stable condition in hospital. The accident happened in Vanderbijlpark, about eight kilometres from Moahi Village where the students were residing.”
