All information in this report was gathered through Potchefstroom First Responders, reflecting another busy yet inspiring week in the community. From local accidents and fraud investigations to outreach efforts and safety campaigns, the past few days have highlighted both the risks and resilience within Potchefstroom and surrounding areas. With continued cooperation between residents, emergency services, and safety networks, every report serves as a reminder that awareness and unity remain our strongest lines of defense.

9 October: Crash at Local Shopping Complex & High-Profile Fraud Case in Klerksdorp

Early Thursday morning, a driver lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a pillar inside a Potchefstroom shopping complex. The driver was transported to hospital by ER24. No further injuries were reported.

In Klerksdorp, a major fraud investigation made headlines after the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) secured a preservation order on luxury vehicles purchased with public funds. The vehicles, including a Maserati, Range Rover, and Mercedes-Benz, were linked to fraudulent municipal payments made between September 2023 and January 2024. The suspects, among them, the City of Matlosana’s CFO Mercy Phetla, will appear in the Klerksdorp Specialised Commercial Crime Court on 27 October 2025.

10 October: Traffic Light Malfunction Warning

Motorists were cautioned to drive with extreme care due to a faulty 3-way traffic light at the Chief Albert Luthuli and Govan Mbeki intersection in Potchefstroom. The light was turning green and red simultaneously, a significant hazard amid increased Aardklop Festival traffic.

12 October: Wilmed Oncology Outreach Supports Distant Patients

In a heartwarming initiative led by Danielle Janse van Rensburg, in collaboration with Orkney Lions and the Trauma First Responder Chaplaincy, emergency care packs were delivered to oncology patients unexpectedly admitted to Wilmed Hospital. These patients, often traveling long distances, were supported during serious complications such as neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia.

13 October: Road Closure Alert and Emotional Plea for Help

A weekend road closure was announced for Oak Avenue due to the upcoming OAKtober Family Fun Run scheduled for Saturday, 18 October, from 07:30 to 09:30. Organisers and municipal authorities have approved the route and issued traffic guidance for residents and participants.

On a more somber note, a grieving family issued an urgent appeal for CCTV footage or eyewitness information about Chris, a young man who tragically passed away in the early hours of 28 September. His body was found near the corner of Nelson Mandela Avenue (N12) and Sol Plaatjie Street. The community is asked to check surveillance footage in the GP’s and CBD area (Du Plooy & Govan Mbeki Streets) between 01:00 and 04:30. Any information may help bring justice for Chris.

14 October: Vehicle Accident on Govan Mbeki Drive

An accident near the Viljoenskroon turnoff on Govan Mbeki Drive caused one-lane obstruction. Authorities advised motorists to avoid the area while cleanup and recovery operations continued.

15 October: Safety Successes and Tragic Incident in Orkney

SAPS Potchefstroom successfully intercepted a truck carrying illicit cigarettes valued at R3 million on the N12. The arrest of two suspects was made possible by excellent coordination between police and private security stakeholders, including Belrex CCTV systems, Mooirivier Beskerming, and Provincial Traffic.

Meanwhile, in Orkney, a tragic accident claimed the lives of two men who were overpowered by methane gas while attempting to unblock a manhole on Shakespeare Street. Authorities confirmed the men were employed privately and not contracted by the municipality. Investigations are ongoing.

🚨 Community Awareness & First Aid Empowerment

Uni-Life, a leading first aid provider, continues to set the standard for emergency support in Potchefstroom and Klerksdorp. Whether at large sporting events or local school activities, their highly trained team offers both on-site response and accredited first aid training.

Courses include:

• Blended online & in-class learning

• Certification for schools, businesses, and sports clubs

• Hands-on, scenario-based training to build real-world skills

Their goal: Empowering more community members to act with confidence during emergencies.

Final Thought

From fatal accidents to fraud crackdowns and inspiring health initiatives, the Potchefstroom region continues to navigate a complex mix of challenges and achievements. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of Potchefstroom First Responders, Mooirivier Beskerming, SAPD, and other safety entities, residents are kept informed and protected. Please remain vigilant, stay involved, and report any suspicious activity to your local authorities.

Your safety starts with awareness. Be alert. Be informed. Be your own First Responder. 🚨

All image credits: Potchefstroom First Responders

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