Family seeks justice after man killed in water tanker incident

The family of Celani Zungu (38), who was run over by a municipal water tanker in Adams Mission, south of Durban, is calling for justice as police investigate a culpable homicide case. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, with police continuing their investigation. The family said they are seeking accountability for what they believe was a preventable death.

Speaking to SABC News on Monday, a relative said tensions rose shortly before the incident when residents confronted the tanker driver over water shortages. It is alleged the situation escalated when the driver produced a sjambok. He then allegedly attempted to run over another resident before striking Zungu.

Zungu’s brother, Sakhile, said he rushed him to hospital after the incident, first stopping at a nearby police station to seek assistance. Zungu was declared dead on arrival. The incident has also cast a spotlight on ongoing water shortages in Adams Mission and surrounding areas.

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Residents said they had been without water for several days and initially believed the tanker had arrived to deliver water to their community. However, it later emerged that the tanker was delivering water to another area, which residents said caused frustration and confusion. eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba visited the Zungu family on Monday, offering condolences and calling for calm.

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