SIX people have been killed in separate accidents in Free State on Friday, 23 December.
Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli said at about 3.45am, cops received a call about a head-on collision between two taxis on the N6 between Bloemfontein and Reddersburg.
“All emergency personnel were dispatched to the scene, where five people succumbed to their injuries and 11 were rushed to hospital,” Kareli said in a statement.
He added that three passengers and both drivers of the taxis died on the scene. He said cops were probing the circumstances that led to the accident.
In another incident, Kareli said a car pile-up was reported on the N3 at about 7.15am, involving four sedans and a truck.
“One person was reported dead at the scene. Both sides of the N3 are closed for investigation and clear-up,” he said.
Kareli added that cases of culpable homicide in both accidents were registered for further investigation.
Meanwhile, provincial commissioner Lieutenant-General Baile Motswenyane appealed to road users to be patient and respect one another.
The MEC for Police, Roads and Transport William Bulwane, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones in the accident and wishes a speedy recovery to all the injured.
"I wish to urge all road users to please drive with caution and patience over the festive season with very high numbers of vehicles moving around our province and country. Overtaking on a solid barrier line is a serious offence. All of us want to arrive safe and sound at our destinations and it takes just one inconsiderate driver to change a season of celebrations into one of grief and anguish. Road safety starts with each one of us. Let us take that responsibility and save lives," said Bulwane.
