Mayor of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, Tania Campbell, says the municipality is exploring legal action against the driver and company of the LP Gas tanker that exploded in Boksburg on Christmas Eve.
The incident occurred when gas cylinders on the tanker exploded when the driver attempted to and was unable to drive through a bridge underpass.
The blast claimed the lives of at least 38 people including healthcare workers who were stationed at a public hospital near the incident.
“The City is exploring its legal options to act against both the company that owns the truck and the driver of the truck. We are of the opinion that there is sufficient evidence to do so. More information in this regard will be communicated in due course.
“Once all investigations are concluded, we will show no fear nor favour in holding those responsible to account,” Campbell said.
The Mayor said she is “pleased” with the status of various municipality-led investigations into the incident.
“Since the day of the explosion, various departments in the city have been working tirelessly to ensure that a thorough and meaningful investigation takes place to ascertain what happened on the day and the way forward.
Campbell reiterated the municipality’s condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.
The driver was arrested shortly after the incident but he was released on warning pending the outcome of further investigations.
He was facing multiple counts of culpable homicide, negligent causing of an explosion resulting in death [Act 26 of 1956, Section 27 (2)] and malicious damage to property.
