Officer who died in deputy president’s motorcade identified
MBOMBELA - One of the vehicles in the motorcade of Deputy President David Mabuza was involved in an accident on Sunday. A member of the Presidential VIP Protection Unit died.
Mabuza’s convoy was travelling between Middelburg and Gauteng when one of the backup vehicle’s tyres burst, resulting in it rolling.
There were three occupants in the vehicle. Two were seriously injured and one of the officers was pronounced dead on the scene.
The deceased officer has been identified as Warrant Officer Thomas Shongwe.
The two other occupants were a 50-yearold captain, who is still in critical condition in hospital, and a 44-year-old warrant officer, who has been discharged from hospital.
Shongwe will be buried in Mbombela on Saturday.
The National police commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, said they are investigating a culpable homicide case to determine the cause of the accident.
“The death of the member is not only a great loss to the organisation, but also the community at large. Shongwe has been described by his immediate commanders as a quiet, punctual, committed and disciplined member who served his country with distinction.
“On behalf of the SAPS management, we offer our condolences to his family and loved ones, and also wish the injured members a speedy recovery,” said Masemola.
The other day one of them almost drove me off the road on the N4 before Mbombela … I’m sure I haven’t been the only one experiencing this.
Jaco Geldenhuys
I’ve seen these VIP protection units on the N4 before when they move these BMWs shielding the MPs. It’s so dangerous. I know they are trained for safety driving or whatever they call it, but on the road it’s dangerous and risky for other road users. May his soul rest in peace.
Babwa Bandile Gwadlagwadla
As ek die swart karre op die pad sien, begin ek al klaar vloek. Hulle ry teen ’n hoë spoed, twee tot drie karre langs mekaar in ’n enkelbaan, en druk jou van die pad af! Jorina van Staden
Sad that he passsed away, but when they drive like they drive, I am amazed that there are not more accidents. One of those teams almost took us out before. Surely speed restrictions should count for them also?
Estelle De Wet
Magda Jacobs
People of God, stop criticising. Have you ever seen the president’s convoy drive slowly. Come on, be sensible. We all know they drive fast for the safety or our president, it’s a law. How should they drive? If this were to happen to an ambulance, are you going to say this as well? At least we know you hated the deputy president, but God is with him. Long live Mr Mabuza, RIP, and condolences to the other family. Refiloe Ncongwane Masombuka