Empangeni – The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Mr. Siboniso Duma, has called for urgent public assistance in locating a drunk taxi driver who fled the scene of a serious road accident along the R34 between Empangeni and Eshowe. The driver, who was allegedly intoxicated at the time, crashed into another vehicle before abandoning his passengers and fleeing on foot.

The incident, which took place on Friday, 27 June 2025, involved a minibus taxi carrying family members travelling from Empangeni to EMasangweni. According to eyewitness accounts from passengers and the driver of a Ford Ranger involved in the collision, the drunk taxi driver was visibly drunk and driving erratically before attempting to overtake. In the process, he struck the rear of the Ford Ranger, sending both vehicles down an embankment.

“Between nine and fourteen lives could have been lost in that crash,” said MEC Duma during a press briefing at Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumulo House. “This kind of reckless and criminal behaviour will not be tolerated. Running away from the scene of a crash is a criminal offence. What this driver has done is no different from a hit-and-run.”

r34-accident-scene-emergency-services-crowd-empangeni-drunk-taxi-driver-fled.jpg — Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene as a crowd gathered near the site of the crash. The drunk taxi driver fled before police arrived.

Emergency services and members of the Road Traffic Inspectorate responded swiftly to the scene. However, by the time officers arrived, the driver had vanished. Police have since launched a manhunt for the suspect.

Also Read | Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma Serves ANC KZN Over ‘False and Damaging’ Statement

“This is not the first time a drunk taxi driver has disappeared after causing a major crash,” Duma said. “Earlier in July, we received similar reports from New England Road in Pietermaritzburg. These patterns are deeply troubling.”

MEC Duma is now urging the public, especially communities in Empangeni, eShowe, and surrounding areas, to come forward with any information that may assist in tracking down the suspect. He further emphasized the severity of the offense, vowing to push for the maximum penalty allowable under South African law.

“We will pursue a jail sentence of up to nine years or a fine of R180,000,” he stated firmly. “This is not merely about punishing one individual—it’s about protecting lives on our roads.”

In a reminder to all motorists, Duma reiterated key legal responsibilities in the event of a traffic collision:

Stop: All drivers involved in an accident, regardless of fault, are required to stop immediately.
Report: Accidents must be reported to the nearest police station or traffic official.
Remain: Leaving the scene without police clearance is a criminal act.
Assist: Injured individuals must be assisted and transported to receive medical attention.

Also Read | ZamaNguni Gumede Was in the Mortuary a Day After She Went Missing, Family Discovers

While none of the passengers sustained fatal injuries, many were left traumatized, and some required urgent medical attention. Several victims are still recovering in local hospitals.

The Department of Transport has confirmed that an internal probe is underway, and they are working closely with the SAPS to trace the drunk taxi driver and establish whether the vehicle was operating under a legal operating license.

Members of the public with information are encouraged to contact the office of the MEC for Transport and Human Settlements or report directly to SAPS.

“We urge our communities to help us hold this person accountable. Drunk and reckless drivers are endangering all of us. Help us bring this one to justice,” said Duma.

Also Read | ZamaNguni Gumede Found Dead in Durban Flat