20 Nov 2016

Maun police have arrested a 28- year-old man in connection with a road accident that resulted in the death of a 15-year-old pupil.

District traffic chief, Senior Superintendent Samuel Kgomo said in an interview that the accident occurred on Friday (November 18) at around 7am along the SSKB road behind Botswana Defence Force camp.

He said a Toyota Vitz knocked down a form two pupil at Sedie Junior Secondary School,  while she was crossing the road. The girl and other pupils were going to school when her life was cut short.

Senior Supt Kgomo said the pupil sustained head injuries and was rushed to the hospital where she was certified dead. The deceased originated from New Town ward in Maun.

Senior Supt Kgomo said the suspect was likely to be charged with causing death by dangerous driving. He also appealed to drivers to be vigilant and obey the road signs to ensure road safety.

He said their analysis had indicated that most of the road accidents in his policing area were caused by drunken driving.

To arrest the situation, Senior Supt Kgomo said every weekend they embark on an operation to curb drunken driving, adding that they would continue to work with other stakeholders to fight the problem.

He said they would intensify patrol strategies, mount speed traps within the village and on high ways as they approach the festive season to reduce road offences.

Senior Supt Kgomo pleaded with those who would be taking long trips to always check their vehicles’ road worthiness.

Still in Maun, a 29-year-old man was rescued by his neighbour while attempting to commit suicide at Boseja ward on Thursday night at around 1130pm.
Assistant Superintendent Oarabile Hulela said the man was cut off from a tree near his home trying to commit suicide.

He used an electrical cable after his girlfriend asked him to end their relationship.

Asst Supt Hulela said fortunately he survived without any injuries adding that he was taken to the hospital for counseling.

He said attempted suicide is an offence punishable by law. He added that the police offered the man counseling for his own safety. ENDS