Traffic officer killed by suspected drunk driver
Provincial inspector Rendani Maluta (41), who served the department for 14 years, was struck and killed while on duty in Rustenburg.
Platinum Weekly newspaper | Rustenburg – Fourteen years of service ended in tragedy when provincial inspector (PI) Rendani Maluta (41) was struck and killed by a bakkie while on duty on Tuesday, 3 November 2026.
According to the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management, Maluta and his colleagues were working in Bophuthatswana Street towards Meriting, near the R510, when he attempted to stop a bakkie that had reportedly ignored several stop signs. The vehicle allegedly struck him with its front right fender before the driver fled. The incident happened at approximately 10:00. Fellow traffic officers pursued the vehicle, with police providing backup. The driver was arrested and was allegedly under the influence of alcohol.
Maluta was stationed at the Rustenburg Provincial Traffic Station and had served the department for 14 years. MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management Tsotso Tlhapi visited the scene and extended her heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. She described Maluta as a dedicated officer whose death comes as traffic authorities prepare for the busy festive season.
Tlhapi thanked the officers and police for their swift response.
She also urged motorists to act responsibly and drive sensibly as festive-season traffic increases.
The suspect is expected to appear in the Tlhabane Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 5 November 2026. Funeral details will be announced in due course.