KIMBERLEY – A driver who allegedly fled the scene of a fatal motor vehicle collision was arrested on Saturday 10 October and will appear in court on charges of culpable homicide, reckless and negligent driving, and defeating the ends of justice.

The collision occurred on Saturday 3 October on the N8 national route near Schmidtsdrift, involving a Volkswagen Polo and a state vehicle transporting members of the Upington Public Order Police.

The 48-year-old male suspect, who was allegedly driving a Toyota Fortuner, reportedly collided with the Volkswagen Polo, which resulted in a head-on collision with the police vehicle.

Two persons were declared deceased at the scene – the driver of the Volkswagen Polo and a passenger – while a member of the South African Police Service sustained injuries.

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Investigation leads to arrest

The driver of the Toyota Fortuner allegedly fled the scene. However, members of the South African Police Service managed to obtain a partial registration number of the vehicle, providing a crucial lead for the investigation.

A thorough and meticulous investigation by Lieutenant Colonel Boitumelo Seleke of the Northern Cape Operational Response Services resulted in locating the suspect’s vehicle, which had reportedly been taken to a panel beater in Kimberley.

On Saturday 10 October, the suspect was arrested and the vehicle allegedly involved in the collision was seized as part of the investigation.

“Fleeing the scene of a fatal collision will not absolve anyone of responsibility. The South African Police Service remains committed to pursuing every available lead, holding alleged offenders accountable and ensuring that justice is served for the victims and their families,” said Colonel Cherelle Ehlers, police spokesperson.

The Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended Seleke for his tenacity, dedication and commitment to ensuring that those responsible for serious offences are brought before the courts.

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