Pretoria: President Jacob Zuma says he is saddened by the tragic death of four police officers and a truck driver following an accident between two trucks on the N1 highway between Polokwane and Mokopane in the early hours of this morning.

“Fellow South Africans, let me express our shock and sadness … the police are still investigating the explosion,” said the President during the opening of the National House of Traditional Leaders in Parliament on Thursday.

He said the families of those who had died were in his thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Earlier, government and the Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa, had also offered their condolences to the families. The minister, accompanied by the National Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega and senior police management, is expected to visit the families today.

According to preliminary reports, the four police officers were killed and three seriously injured following an accident between two trucks.

One of the trucks caught fire and exploded, killing the members and damaging three police vehicles.

“We are deeply saddened about this tragic loss of lives of our members, who died whilst on duty. In their pursuit for safety, they served with dedication right until their untimely passing,” said Minister Mthethwa.

He further wished a speedy recovery to the three injured members who are currently recuperating in hospital.

SOURCE: South African Official News