Durban – The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Willies Mchunu has expressed shock and sadness following the death of a Road Transport Inspectorate (RTI) Officer who was hit by a vehicle whilst trying to stop it for speeding on the N2 in Durban on Sunday.
According to a statement released on Sunday Thuli Nhlengetlwa, 35, an RTI officer from Pinetown was conducting a speed timing exercise on the N2 Spaghetti junction with her team, when she attempted to stop silver Audi vehicle which did not have number plates on display.
Apparently, the Audi was travelling at 141 km per hour when the driver knocked her over and fled the scene. Unfortunately, the officer died on the scene.
According to the statement other officers gave chase but the driver of the Audi vehicle stopped the car and fled on foot leaving a passenger inside.
“The car was then handed over to the SAPS. A massive manhunt is underway for the driver,” said MEC spokesman Kwanele Ncalane
According to the SAPS search it was was discovered that the Audi was stolen from Roodepoort in the Gauteng Province.
“I am deeply saddened by the unwarranted death of such a young and dedicated officer in the line of duty. It is through such dedicated officers that we fight all sorts of ills on our roads, including criminals who have no value for life. The police will not rest until this criminal is apprehended. Our deepest condolences to the friends, colleagues and the family of our officer who died in the line of duty,” Mchunu said. – Bhekisisa Mncube, SAnews.gov.za
