By OBAKENG MAJE
Embattled Greater Taung Local Municipality mayor, Tumisang Gaoraelwe allegedly crashed the municipal luxury BMW X5. Gaoraelwe, who was allegedly too drunk to be behind the wheel was with his ‘girlfriend’ at the time of the accident.
The North West police spokesperson in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster, Sgt Tryphosa van Rooyen said, the accident took place 15km outside Shweizer Reneke towards Wolmaranstad on Monday afternoon.
“Upon arrival at the scene, the police found a vehicle belonging to the mayor and a tractor involved in an accident. It is alleged that a tractor that was travelling toward Wolmaranstad was off ramping from the main road, while Gaoraelwe was driving behind it.
“However, Gaoraelwe allegedly tried to overtake but collided with the rear right side of the tractor. No injuries were sustained by the driver and the passenger of the vehicle and only damages to both vehicles were reported,” van Rooyen said.
She said a case of reckless and negligent driving was opened by the police and is under investigation. According to information, Gaoraelwe was on leave at the time and appointed F4SD councillor, Mika Moeti as the acting mayor.
Meanwhile, the municipal manager, Katlego Gabanakgosi, and municipality spokesperson, Ricky Oliphant failed to respond to our media inquiry on why Gaoraelwe was using an official municipal vehicle, while on leave.
Gaoraelwe also did not respond to our WhatsApp messages and calls before publishing this article.
The Guardian 