Tragic Crash on R101 Claims Lives of Police Officer and Five Inmates in Limpopo

Tragic Crash on R101 Claims Lives of Police Officer and Five Inmates in Limpopo

Limpopo, South Africa – A police officer and five inmates tragically lost their lives on Thursday morning when a South African Police Service (SAPS) vehicle transporting inmates to court crashed on the R101 between Mokopane and Mookgophong, Limpopo police confirmed.

The officer, stationed at Naboomspruit Police Station, had collected 11 inmates from Mokopane Police Station for court appearances in Naboomspruit when the incident occurred.

“We can confirm, as the South African Police Service in Limpopo, that there was a horrific accident along Naboomspruit Road this morning, in which a SAPS member attached to Naboomspruit Police Station lost his life, along with four inmates,” said SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba.

Six other inmates sustained injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for medical attention. SAPS extended condolences to the families of those affected.

The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety confirmed the crash involved multiple injuries and fatalities, describing it as a “serious motor vehicle accident.”

Department spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene advised motorists to use alternative routes due to the closure of the affected section. Drivers traveling from Mokopane to Mookgophong are advised to take the N1 from the Zebetiela Weighbridge, while motorists traveling from Mookgophong to Mokopane should use the Mookgophong on- and off-ramps.

“Our officers are stationed in both directions to redirect traffic,” Chuene said. “Please expect delays and plan your route accordingly. For real-time updates, consider checking ViaMichelin.”

Chuene added that further details would be released once a full report is compiled by the relevant stakeholders.

This incident highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement personnel and the importance of road safety in the region.