Mpumalanga Community Safety, Security and Liaison MEC Vusi Shongwe sends condolences to the families of four young pedestrians who were killed in Bushbuckridge on Saturday and Sunday.
At least four youngsters ages ranging between 11 and 12 were killed and one seriously injured by speeding vehicles in three separate incidents on the R40 road near Violet Bank and Casteel and on D3394 near Autherstone.
In the first incident which occurred at 9h30, two LDV’s collided and hit two young girls. One died on the spot and the other was rushed to Mapulaneng hospital with serious injuries. Later on the day, two young boys who were riding a bicycle were also killed on the spot when a speeding LDV hit them.
On Sunday at 10h30, a young boy who was going to church was also hit by an LDV near Autherstone. The drivers are facing charges of reckless driving, negligence and culpable homicide.
The angry MEC Shongwe calls for harsh sentencing of drivers who disobey traffic regulations, saying it will send a strong message to other drivers who do not obey road rules. He said that the accidents could have been avoided if the motorists were careful and driving responsibly.
Recent statistics reveal an increase on accidents involving pedestrians. The Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison has projects and programmes aimed at educating pedestrians on road safety. The MEC has also wished the seriously injured youth a speedy recovery.
Enquiries:
Joseph Mabuza
Cell: 082 678 1450
Tel: 013 766 4055
