Tragic crash claims the life of a police officer and six inmates along the R101 towards Naboomspruit

The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has expressed sadness following a tragic vehicle accident that claimed the life of a police officer and six inmates earlier today, 14 August 2025, at approximately 09:00 on the R101 between Mokopane and Mookgopong.

Preliminary information reveals that a police vehicle transporting eleven inmates, including one woman from Mokopane Police Station to the Naboomspruit Magistrate’s Court collided with a truck a few kilometres towards Naboomspruit. The impact resulted in the death of a police officer and six inmates. The remaining five inmates sustained injuries and were transported to a local hospital to receive medical attention.

The truck driver escaped unharmed. The identities of the deceased will be released once all next of kin have been informed and official identification processes have been completed. The fallen police officer was stationed at SAPS Naboomspruit, and all the inmates were arrested, charged for various offences and detained at Mokopane Police Station.

Emergency services, including SAPS Accident Response Teams remain on the scene conducting investigations to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.

Meanwhile, the members of Employee Health and Wellness unit have been dispatched to offer the necessary support to the affected families.

The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, stating:

“This is a devastating loss for the SAPS and the affected families. Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by this tragedy. A thorough investigation will be conducted to establish the exact cause of this incident.”