Riot Hlatshwayo

Riot Hlatshwayo

A trainee policeman in Mpumalanga who was hit by a pole that had been struck by a car during a drag race has died.

Lance Mhlanga, who was attached to Mhala police station near Bushbuckridge, had travelled to Rocky's Drift, near Nelspruit, on Saturday to watch the race.

A number of very fast BMWs that have earned the name "Gusheshe" for their fast spinning maneuvers took part in the event.

One of the vehicles spun around and hit a pole that fell on Mhlanga's head, severely injuring him. He was then taken to hospital in an ambulance.

Sowetan has learnt that the event was organised by a man known only as "Nicky" and took place in a yard he had bought.

Police have distanced themselves from any responsibility for authorising the event, but the provincial department of roads and transport said they would investigate who had authorised the event .

Police spokesperson Superintendent Abie Khoabane said there was "no way that police could authorise this kind of an event".

It is common knowledge that cars are involved in illegal drag events, racing in the streets of KaNyamazane, Daantjie, Barberton and Matsulu every weekend.