WELKOM – A police vehicle transporting 13 male detainees overturned near the Alma Road traffic circle in Welkom on Thursday afternoon, resulting in multiple injuries and a brief escape by two suspects who were later recaptured.
The incident occurred at approximately 17:21 on 19 March, when the police van was transporting detainees from Odendaalsrus. According to police reports, the driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn at the busy intersection.
ALSO READ: Circle of Death claims another life: Let’s speak out
The accident resulted in injuries to a few people. The police driver and his crew members sustained slight injuries and were taken to hospital for medical treatment. Seven of the 13 detainees also required hospital treatment for minor injuries sustained during the rollover.
Four detainees were taken directly to police cells after the incident, while two others fled the crash scene immediately afterward.
Swift recapture of escapees
Welkom police acted quickly to apprehend the two escapees. Tshidiso Toolbaart (26) was captured the same evening at Paballong Village. The second suspect, Katleho Motoane (25), was apprehended in Odendaalsrus.
Both men are now back in police custody.
Investigation underway
Police have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident. The incident raises questions about transport safety protocols for detainee vehicles, particularly given the number of people involved and the busy location where the accident occurred.
The Alma Road traffic circle is a well-known intersection in Welkom, and the timing of the accident during late afternoon traffic could have contributed to the severity of the incident.
According to bystanders at the accident scene, potholes may have been a possible cause of the driver losing control of the vehicle.
All injured parties are reported to be in stable condition, and no fatalities were recorded in connection with the vehicle overturn.
