NMB Mayor Nqaba Bhanga faces culpable homicide over deadly vehicle crash

Eastern Cape Police have opened a case of culpable homicide against Nelson Mandela Bay Executive Mayor Nqaba Bhanga, in the wake of a road accident that claimed two lives and landed him in hospital.

“Algoa Park detectives are investigating a culpable homicide, after two people were fatally injured in a collision, between two vehicles, late on Saturday evening, August 28, 2021. It is alleged that at about 11.30pm, at the intersections of St Leonards Drive and Uitenhage Road, two vehicles, a grey Audi and a navy blue Mercedes Benz, collided with each other,” said Sandra Janse Van Rensburg.

“Both occupants, identities still unknown (male and female) in the Audi died on the scene and the alleged driver of the Mercedes-Benz is currently in hospital,” she added.

NMB Mayor Nqaba Bhanga still recovering from collision

The mayor’s spokesperson Leander Kruger said his injuries were far more serious than what was initially reported in the media, adding that Bhanga underwent surgery on Sunday afternoon after suffering some internal bleeding, as a result of the accident.

Speaking to eNCA on Sunday, Kruger said the culpable homicide investigation was merely procedure.

“The SAPS have confirmed that a case of culpable homicide is being investigated, which is standard procedure in an instance such as this. The mayor and the mayor’s office will provide our full cooperation with law enforcement. We wish to caution against speculation until this investigation is concluded. Right now our focus is ensuring that the mayor receives the best possible care and to support his family during this time,” he said.

There are now several questions being asked, in light of the clash, including what the mayor was doing on the road outside of curfew. Bhanga was using his personal vehicle at the time.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Eastern Cape (of which Bhanga is a member) have expressed their shock over the accident and sent condolences to the loved ones of the deceased.

“We are waiting for more details surrounding the accident. The DA sends our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of those who tragically lost their lives. We wish them all the strength they need in this difficult time,” said the DA’s Andrew Whitfield.