By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Officer, Zwidfhela Daniel Singo, has been hospitalized after he was hit by a speeding white Hyundai H100 dropside.
The incident occurred on Sunday, 12 February 2023, whilst he was conducting a stop and search at Soweto Highway under the railway bridge in Mzimhlope, Orlando.
The driver of the Hyundai sped off after crashing into the officer. The officers on the scene gave chase to apprehend the suspect.
Whilst attempting to evade the officers, the driver of the Hyundai crashed into a vehicle at the Soweto Highway and Klipspruit Valley Road traffic circle, and he again attempted to flee, but he was immediately apprehended by the officers.
The driver was breathalysed as he was suspected to be under the influence of alcohol. His breathalyser reading was 0.73 mg/l which is above the legal limit of 0.24 mg/l.
According Xolani Fihla, JMPD spokesperson, preliminary information indicated that officer Singo had signalled for the Hyundai to stop, but the male driver failed to halt and collided into officer Singo.
“The 55-year-old male was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, reckless and negligent driving and failing to stop at an accident scene.
“He was detained at Orlando SAPS where a case docket has been opened for further investigation
“Officer Singo sustained serious injuries to the head and back. He was airlifted to Milpark Hospital, and he is currently in a stable condition,” said Fihla.
The JMPD Acting Chief of Police Angie Mokasi wished officer Singo a speedy recovery.
“It’s extremely sad and disturbing that motorists continue being a risk on the road, endangering not only their lives but the lives of others as well,” Mokasi said.