By Kopano Dibakwane
A 49-year-old Principal Provincial Inspector stationed at the Middleburg Overload Control, identified as Joseph Mtselu, was tragically killed on duty in the early hours of Tuesday 14 October 2025.
According to the spokesperson for Mpumalanga DCSSL(Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison), Moeti Mmusi, the traffic law enforcement officer died while directing an LDV pulling a trailer to the Middelburg Weighbridge on the N4 toll road.
“ It is alleged that the LDV did not stop, and hit him. The driver reportedly drove away and allegedly fled the scene on foot. The officer died at the scene. A case of culpable homicide has been opened, and the driver is still at large. Police are searching for the suspect and an investigation is underway,” said Mmusi.
Responding to the tragedy, Mpumalanga DCSSL MEC, Jackie Macie, extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased. He called for the police to work around the clock in locating the driver of the LDV.
Furthermore, Macie said traffic officers work tirelessly to save lives on the road, and this death is a devastating loss to the Department.
“We also encourage traffic law enforcement officers to be more vigilant when on the road as some motorists do not respect the rules of the road,” said Macie.
