Horror on the R101

The R101 between Mokopane and Mookgopong became the scene of a devastating road accident on Thursday, 14 August 2025, leaving nine people dead, including a police officer and eight inmates. The collision involved a police vehicle transporting inmates and a truck, with initial reports confirming seven fatalities at the scene. Sadly, two more inmates later died in hospital, bringing the tragic toll to nine.

The officer, stationed at Naboomspruit Police Station, had been transporting 11 inmates from Mokopane Police Station for court appearances when the crash occurred. The identities of the deceased inmates have not yet been released publicly.

Police response and condolences

Provincial Commissioner of Police, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, spoke of the tragedy during a press briefing. “Our thoughts are with the families affected by this terrible incident. We wish the remaining injured inmates a swift recovery,” she said.

She assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the collision. “We are committed to ensuring that the facts are established and that we understand how this tragedy occurred,” Hadebe emphasised.

Community support and ongoing care

Local authorities are collaborating with NGOs and community organisations to provide emotional and logistical support to grieving families. The surviving inmates remain in hospital, although updates on their condition have not yet been released.

Social media across Limpopo has been flooded with messages of shock and condolences, with residents urging for improved road safety measures along the R101, a route notorious for heavy vehicle traffic and accidents.

This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the risks faced by officers and inmates during transport, and the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols on provincial roads.

{Source: IOL}

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