Police in Botlokwa, Limpopo have confirmed the identities of the three people killed in a horrific head-on collision on the N1 near Ha Phasa on Friday evening, among them an active SAPS sergeant and a retired police captain.
The deceased were identified as Sergeant David Mulanga Mabeba, 43, attached to Sunnyside SAPS in Gauteng, retired Captain Obed Malindela Tshikhudo, 62, formerly attached to Westenburg SAPS in Limpopo, and Rachel Mamphwe, 53.
On Saturday, IOL News reported that police had found a police appointment card at the scene of the crash.
Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said officers received reports of a serious motor vehicle accident on the N1 at about 6.50pm and responded immediately.
“On arrival, police found two severely damaged vehicles involved in a head-on collision,” said Ledwaba.
He said a white Hyundai i20 was allegedly travelling from south to north when it collided with a Toyota Corolla Sprinter travelling in the opposite direction.
Police found Sergeant Mabeba, who was alone in the Hyundai i20, trapped inside the vehicle.
“He was certified dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel,” said Ledwaba.
Inside the Toyota Corolla Sprinter, rescuers found retired Captain Tshikhudo and Mamphwe trapped in the wreckage.
Emergency teams used the jaws of life to extricate the victims from the vehicle.
“Both occupants were unfortunately certified dead at the scene,” Ledwaba said.
The cause of the crash is under investigation.
Limpopo police commissioner Lt-Gen Thembi Hadebe conveyed condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in this devastating accident. We extend our sincere condolences to the families, friends and colleagues affected by this tragedy, particularly the SAPS members who have lost one of their own and a former colleague. May their souls rest in peace,” said Hadebe.
Police in Botlokwa have opened a case of culpable homicide following the collision.
IOL News
Simon Majadibodu
iol.co.za
