Police are investigating a case of culpable homicide after a vehicle accident on the R31 road between Daniëlskuil and Kuruman during which a sergeant attached to the Daniëlskuil Detective Unit succumbed to his injuries.

It is alleged that two detectives attached to this unit – the sergeant, who has not yet been named, and a constable – were transporting 13 prisoners from Kuruman to Daniëlskuil when the accident occurred approximately 30 kilometres outside Kuruman on Thursday 28 May at approximately 08:30.

In the accident, the constable was injured and was transported to hospital for treatment. The 13 prisoners who were being transported sustained injuries and are receiving the necessary medical treatment.

Colonel Cherelle Ehlers, media spokesperson of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape, said the cause of the accident is under investigation.

The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, and SAPS Management are saddened by the tragic loss of the member and have extended their condolences whilst conveying well wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured member.

ALSO READ: Northern Cape’s R31 road still a fatal trap for motorists