Zandisile Luphahla

Just a few days after Transport Minister Ben Martins launched the Arrive Alive campaign in Kimberley on Friday, five people died in a horrible car accident near Plaatfontein, a few kilometres outside Kimberley.

Tuelo Moreetsi Kale, 40, who was driving with four unidentified passengers, collided with an oncoming white Toyota bakkie of a well-known businessman from Barkly West who was travelling with his son.

The injured businessman and his son were taken to hospital.

Kale’s body, which was thrown our of the car, was found nearby.

Kale worked as a logistical clerk for the police in Barkly West.

“We could only recognise him by his dreadlocks,” said a relative, Bashwabile Kale.

It is believed Kale had given the four people in his car a lift.

His sister, Keolebogile Solomons, said Kale had big dreams.

“He had just bought a new house and was busy renovating it. I am sure he was travelling to Kimberley to get some renovation stuff for the house.

“He died in a car he loved so much, it was his girlfriend,” said Solomons.

MEC for transport, safety and liaison Patrick Mabilo said he was shocked by the death of five people in one day.

“It was hardly days after the launch of the Arrive Alive campaign by the minister. It is shocking, but we will continue to educate people about safe use of the roads.

“Our law enforcement agencies will be on the lookout this festive season,” he said.”

Kale is survived by his father, two sisters and a brother.

zandisilel@thenewage.co.za