A recent surge in road deaths have hit the Cape with more reports of pedestrians getting knocked and killed.
The recent incident took place on Monday night in Khayelitsha where a 35-year-old man was knocked dead by a vehicle in an alleged hit and run while trying to cross the road on Mew Way.
Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed that the matter is under investigation and no arrests have been made as yet.
Van Wyk reported: “Khayelitsha police registered a culpable homicide case following an accident in Khayelitsha last night. A 35-year-old male was knocked over by vehicle on Mew Way while trying to cross the road. The body was removed to a nearby mortuary. Investigations continues, no arrest yet.”
The Western Cape Mobility Department released a statement saying that: “Between 15 and 21 December, in the midst of the Festive Season’s peak travel period, the Western Cape Mobility Department’s road safety review revealed continued pressure on the province’s road network.
“During this period, 28 crashes were recorded across the province, resulting in the tragic loss of 30 lives. Alarmingly, 11 of those were pedestrians, once again highlighting pedestrian safety as a concern during the Festive Season.
“Provincial Traffic Law Enforcement made 98 arrests, of which 56 accounted for driving under the influence of alcohol and 12 for possession of fraudulent documentation.
“A further 154 speeding offences were recorded, with the highest speed clocked at 161km/h in a 120km/h zone, placing all road users at risk.”
Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku said the figures are a sobering reminder of the responsibility every road user carries.
He said: “While we are encouraged by the strong enforcement footprint and the dedication shown by our traffic officers, the loss of life on our roads is deeply concerning.
“Driving under the influence, excessive speeding and unsafe pedestrian behaviour are preventable causes of tragedy. We appeal to every motorist and pedestrian to make responsible choices so that families are not robbed of loved ones during this festive season."
Chief Director: Traffic Management Maxine Bezuidenhout reaffirmed the commitment of traffic teams on the ground.
He added: “Our provincial traffic officers, together with local traffic and emergency partners, remain deployed across the Western Cape, day and night.
“Enforcement is firm, but our ultimate goal is not fines or arrests, it is saving lives.ded, with the highest speed clocked at 161km/h in a 120km/h zone, placing all road users at risk.”