By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
8 April 2025- The South African Police Service in Barkly West is currently investigating three separate motor vehicle accidents that occurred within a 24-hour period on the R31 road, near Barkly West, which resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries. The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel, Sergio Kock said first accident took place on 6 April 2025, at 16:35, approximately 5km outside Barkly West, near Pniel.
Kock said an Isuzu mini-truck reportedly overturned and came to a halt off the roadway.
“Both occupants sustained serious injuries and were transported to hospital for medical treatment. A case of reckless and negligent driving has been registered.
“Roughly an hour later, at around 17:30, a second collision occurred on the R31 near Gong-Gong, where it is alleged that an Audi and a BMW were attempting to overtake when they collided with a truck,” he said.
Kock further said a truck overturned and came to a standstill on its side in the middle of the road. He added that vehicle had a single occupant.
“Tragically, the driver of the Audi was declared deceased on the scene. The drivers of the BMW and the truck sustained injuries and were taken to hospital. The road was closed to traffic until approximately 3am on 7 April 2025.
“A culpable homicide investigation is underway by Barkly West SAPS. The third incident occurred early this morning, 7 April 2025, at about 05:30, approximately 15km, outside Barkly West on the R31,” he said.
Kock said a stationary truck, which had reportedly broken down on the roadside, was struck by another truck. He said the driver of the stationary vehicle was outside the truck at the time.
“The driver and passenger of the second truck sustained serious injuries and were taken to hospital for medical treatment. A case of reckless and negligent driving has been registered. The road was reopened at approximately 09:30 this morning.
“The police urge all motorists with any information related to these incidents to contact Barkly West SAPS Detectives at 082 458 9670,” said Kock.
He said motorists are advised to exercise extreme caution when travelling in wet weather conditions. Kock said they should refrain from speeding and ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on any journey.
The Guardian 