Officer’s death during routine stop heightens concerns over law enforcement safety on South African roads.

A 46-year-old Mpumalanga traffic officer, Jabulane Collen Ndlovu, died after being struck by a taxi during a speed enforcement operation on the N2 highway between Piet Retief and Ermelo on Friday.

Ndlovu was attempting to stop the taxi, traveling from Ermelo, when the collision occurred. He was rushed to a Piet Retief hospital but died shortly after arrival.

MEC Jackie Macie urged officers to remain vigilant while acknowledging the dangers they face. “While pursuing errant drivers, we want our traffic officers to be safe,” Macie said.

The incident follows the recent death of another traffic officer, Mbulaheni Patrick Netshidzivhani, in Limpopo. Four suspects were arrested after his body was found in the Khunguni mountain.

Authorities are treating Ndlovu’s death as culpable homicide. The case has prompted renewed calls for enhanced safety measures for traffic officers.