Two SAPS officers die in state vehicle accident en route to court

Mpumalanga – The South African Police Service (SAPS) is mourning the deaths of two Tactical Response Team (TRT) sergeants who were killed in a motor vehicle accident in Witbank, Mpumalanga.

The officers were travelling to Pretoria on Tuesday evening, 5 May 2026, to testify in court when the state vehicle they were in reportedly lost control, resulting in a fatal crash.

At the time of their deaths, the members were deployed as part of the eManguzi Task Team in KwaZulu-Natal, where they were involved in operations targeting cross-border crime.

Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane expressed condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased.

“The loss of these dedicated officers is a devastating blow to the organisation. They served the country with commitment and courage. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and loved ones during this painful time,” Dimpane said.

SAPS said the names of the officers will be released once their next of kin have been informed.

The police service also extended sympathy to members of the eManguzi Task Team, who worked closely with the officers, and confirmed that its Employee Health and Wellness unit has been deployed to provide psychosocial support to affected families and colleagues.