Four pupils from Redcliffe Primary School on Redcliffe Drive, Verulam, were injured after being struck by a vehicle driven by an allegedly intoxicated man on Wednesday afternoon.
Eyewitnesses at the scene reported that the driver attempted to flee on foot following the crash.
Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) officers were alerted and upon arrival, were informed by onlookers that the suspect had abandoned his vehicle and was fleeing.
RUSA’s Prem Balram said the officers pursued him on foot and apprehended him a short distance away.
“The incident occurred when a 42-year-old driver lost control of his white Opel Corsa bakkie, crashing into a group of children who were waiting to be picked up after school. The children, ranging from Grade 1 to Grade 3, sustained moderate injuries and were immediately taken to a nearby clinic for treatment. Among the injured were twin sisters. Fortunately, no lives were lost in the frightening ordeal.
“During the pursuit, officers were also tipped off that the suspect had discarded a firearm while running. A search of the area led to the discovery of a replica firearm in a nearby churchyard. In addition, a half-consumed bottle of Klipdrift brandy was found inside the suspect’s vehicle,” said Mr Balram
The man was taken into custody by RUSA officers and is currently being held at SAPS Verulam. He faces charges of reckless and negligent driving. His vehicle has been impounded by law enforcement authorities.
