In the lead up to the Easter Long Weekend, KwaZulu Natal (KZN) MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Willies Mchunu, has called on all road users – especially motorists – to stay focused and save people’s lives.
Mchunu was speaking following the latest reports that four people have since lost their lives since the tragic head-on collision involving a Mercedes Benz (hearse) and an Isuzu bakkie that occurred in Dundee yesterday evening (08/04/2014).
Preliminary reports reveal that the Mercedes had three male occupants, who all died on the scene. The Isuzu bakkie had two occupants, who due to the impact were critically injured and subsequently taken to Vryheid’s provincial hospital. This morning (09/04/2014), it was further reported that another person has died in hospital, taking the number of the deceased to four.
The two vehicles have been impounded by the police to conduct a forensic investigation into the real cause of the accident.
Mchunu has on behalf of government expressed his deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones.
“On behalf of the KZN government, I wish to send my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this accident and wish the person in hospital a speedy recovery. The Easter holidays are upon us, and we are therefore pleading with all road users to be extra vigilant at and be tolerant on the road. We urge motorists especially to strictly obey the rules of the road,” said Mchunu.
In the recent weeks the department’s Road Traffic Inspectorate has made arrests on motorists who were caught speeding beyond legal limits, driving under the influence of alcohol and driving un-roadworthy vehicles.
“All of these law breakers are contributing to the mass killings of our people. Their behaviour is completely unacceptable and murderous. We appeal to everyone to ensure that the safety of all and every single person’s right to life are protected,” added Mchunu.