Limpopo truck driver Amukelani Rikhotso was on Thursday convicted on three counts of culpable homicide, admitting to the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court that he was under the influence of alcohol when he caused a crash which led to the death of Public Service and Administration Minister Collins Chabane and his two bodyguards last year.
“Based on the evidence that was made to court, the court is satisfied that the accused tenders admissible evidence. The court is also satisfied that the accused confirms that he drove under the influence of alcohol as indicated by the prosecution,” said magistrate Jane Ngobeni.
In addition to the culpable homicide convictions, Rikhotso was also found guilty of negligent driving and driving under the influence of alcohol.
Chabane’s relatives were in court listening to the judgement but declined to comment.
Earlier during proceeding, Rikhotso, 29, recounted the moments before the fatal crash. He admitted consuming alcohol in quantities above the legal limit.
While Rikhotso accepted responsibility for the crash, he added that Chabane’s car was travelling at a high speed at the time of the crash.
“I observed the car while I was in the middle of the road. I saw the car coming at a high speed and I stopped for it to pass on my left as I did not want it to crash,” he said.
Rikhotso’s sentencing has been set down for June 15.
– African News Agency (ANA)
