2 SANDF members killed in Northern Cape car accident
2 SANDF members killed in Northern Cape car accident! A tragic vehicle accident in the Northern Cape has resulted in the death of two South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members, while 17 others sustained injuries.
The accident occurred on Friday, February 7, 2025, when an SANDF military truck carrying 19 soldiers overturned on the R31 road between Koopmansfontein and Delportshoop.
Details of the Fatal Crash
According to Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock, spokesperson for the Northern Cape provincial police, authorities have launched an investigation into a culpable homicide case.
“Preliminary information indicates that the accident occurred Friday afternoon. The truck was traveling with 19 SANDF members from Lohatla Army Base en route to Kimberley,” Kock stated.
Two SANDF members, a male and a female soldier, tragically died at the scene.
“Seventeen other soldiers sustained injuries and were transported to the hospital for urgent medical treatment,” Kock confirmed.
At this time, the identities of the deceased have not been released, as authorities need to first inform their next of kin.
Possible Cause of the Accident
Initial reports indicate that rainy weather conditions may have contributed to the accident.
Kock added that a full investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the crash.
“The cause of the accident forms part of the police investigation,” he said.
The SANDF has yet to release an official statement, but the incident has raised concerns over road safety protocols for military personnel.
Separate Incident: Police Hunt for Suspect in Kakamas Rape Case
In another tragic event in the Northern Cape, police are searching for a suspect who allegedly attacked a couple and raped a woman on January 26, 2025, near Voortrekker Street in Kakamas.
The Kakamas Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit has compiled an identikit of the suspect, based on witness descriptions.
“The suspect is believed to be a Coloured male in his late 20s to early 30s. He speaks both Setswana and Afrikaans,” police reported.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspect’s whereabouts to come forward.
“We request the assistance of the public. Any person who has information that can lead to the arrest of the suspect should contact the investigating officer, Constable Lesego Mokati, at 079 697 7836,” police said.
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
The two unrelated incidents have caused distress among residents of the Northern Cape, raising concerns about both road safety and crime levels in the province.
The SANDF accident highlights the dangers of traveling during extreme weather conditions, especially for military personnel using heavy-duty vehicles.
Meanwhile, the rape case in Kakamas has sparked fear among local residents, with many calling for greater police presence and community vigilance to prevent such crimes.
Road Safety Measures Under Scrutiny
Following the SANDF truck accident, questions have arisen about the safety regulations governing military transport vehicles.
Military convoys are often required to follow strict safety guidelines, including speed limits, vehicle inspections, and designated travel routes.
However, harsh weather conditions can increase the risk of accidents, even for highly trained military drivers.
The SANDF and Northern Cape authorities are expected to review safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Ongoing Investigations
Both the SANDF truck accident and the Kakamas sexual assault case remain under police investigation.
Authorities have urged the public to report any relevant information to assist with these cases.
For information regarding the SANDF accident, witnesses can contact the Northern Cape police department.
For details on the rape suspect in Kakamas, the public is encouraged to reach out to Constable Lesego Mokati at 079 697 7836.
As investigations continue, the affected families, military personnel, and the community await answers, hoping for justice and increased safety measures in the Northern Cape.
