By Lerato Mpembe
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has expressed his outrage and profound sorrow following the senseless death of 62-year-old Madhumathie Bunwarie, who was killed in a horrific incident on Sunday, 29 September 2024. The tragedy occurred on the N3 highway near the Pavilion Shopping Centre in Durban when a car battery was thrown from a bridge, smashing through the windscreen of the vehicle Bunwarie was travelling in and fatally striking her. At the time of the incident, Bunwarie and her family were returning to Pietermaritzburg after attending a funeral in Phoenix.
“This appalling act of criminal recklessness has not only robbed a family of a beloved mother but has also shaken the entire KwaZulu-Natal community,” Premier Ntuli said in a statement. “We cannot, and will not, tolerate such inhumane and cowardly behaviour that brings untold pain and trauma to innocent people.”
Ntuli extended his heartfelt condolences to Bunwarie’s grieving family, emphasizing that no words could truly ease the anguish they are experiencing. However, he pledged the province’s full support during this difficult time and vowed to take swift action to ensure justice for the family and prevent such incidents from occurring again.
A Tragic and Senseless Act
The tragic incident has shocked the KwaZulu-Natal community, with many questioning how such a senseless act could occur. The car battery, likely thrown from a pedestrian bridge, struck Bunwarie directly on the head, causing fatal injuries. The attack has sparked widespread concern over the safety of motorists on major highways, particularly in areas where bridges are easily accessible to individuals intent on causing harm.
In response, Premier Ntuli has called on law enforcement agencies to intensify their efforts to apprehend those responsible for the heinous act. He has instructed the Department of Community Safety and Liaison to collaborate closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to enhance security measures, particularly around high-risk areas near bridges.
“I have directed the relevant authorities to increase police visibility and patrols in these vulnerable areas,” Ntuli said. “We must ensure that our highways are safe for all who use them, and we must act decisively to prevent such cowardly acts of violence from happening again.”
Increasing Public Safety
In the wake of this incident, Ntuli has promised to explore additional security measures, including the installation of surveillance cameras and heightened monitoring of bridges along major highways. These steps are intended to serve as deterrents to potential criminals and to ensure that law enforcement can respond more effectively to any suspicious activities.
“Ensuring the safety of our people is non-negotiable,” the Premier stated. “We are considering all available options to protect motorists, including technological solutions such as cameras and increased foot patrols by law enforcement near key areas like bridges.”
The Premier also called on the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour immediately to the authorities. He stressed that community involvement is crucial in helping law enforcement identify and apprehend individuals who engage in such reckless and dangerous behaviour.
Public Outcry and Calls for Justice
The death of Madhumathie Bunwarie has sparked widespread outrage, with many South Africans expressing their shock and anger at the brazenness of the attack. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of condolence for Bunwarie’s family, along with calls for justice and demands for stricter security measures to prevent similar incidents.
Shakthi Bunwarie, the victim’s husband, has spoken out about the horrific ordeal, describing the event as something that happened “in the blink of an eye.” He called for more awareness about the dangers posed by individuals throwing objects from bridges, urging the government to take immediate action.
“There is a need for more public awareness about this kind of danger,” Shakthi Bunwarie said in a recent interview. “It’s hard to believe that something as simple as travelling home from a funeral could end in such a horrific way.”
A Growing Concern: Highway Safety
This tragic event has highlighted the growing concern over the safety of South Africa’s highways, especially in KwaZulu-Natal. Incidents of objects being thrown from bridges onto passing vehicles are not new, but this fatal attack has reignited discussions around what more can be done to prevent such incidents.
Ntuli acknowledged the longstanding issue of criminal activity on South Africa’s highways and committed to working with national and local authorities to develop long-term solutions. He emphasized that improving public safety would require a multi-faceted approach, involving not only law enforcement but also greater community awareness and involvement.
“We cannot afford to allow lawlessness and recklessness to dominate our roads,” Ntuli said. “This tragic loss must serve as a catalyst for change, pushing us to implement the necessary safeguards that will protect our communities and prevent such a senseless act from happening again.”
Investigation and Public Appeals
Law enforcement agencies have launched an extensive investigation into the incident, with police appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the arrest of the individuals responsible. The SAPS has urged witnesses to come forward and assist in the investigation, assuring the public that all information will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
At present, a case of culpable homicide is being investigated, but authorities have not ruled out additional charges as the investigation progresses. The Premier has expressed his confidence in the justice system, asserting that those responsible will be held accountable.
“I have full faith in our law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice,” Ntuli said. “This is not just a crime against one family, but a crime against our entire community, and we will not rest until justice is served.”
Moving Forward: A Call for Unity
In his closing remarks, Premier Ntuli urged the community to stand united in the face of such tragedies, calling for collective vigilance and compassion in the ongoing fight against crime and violence. He reminded the public that safety is a shared responsibility and that everyone has a role to play in ensuring that South Africa’s roads remain safe for all.
“Let us remember Mrs Bunwarie not just for the tragedy of her passing, but for the love and care she gave to her family and community,” Ntuli said. “May her legacy inspire us to work together to create a safer, more compassionate society for all.”
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #freestate