KZN Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for urgent security measures following the death of a Pietermaritzburg mother, who was killed after a car battery was thrown off a bridge on the N3 near the Pavilion Shopping Centre on Sunday evening.
Madhumathie Bunwarie, 62, of Mountain Rise, had attended her uncle's funeral in Phoenix and later his cremation at the Verulam Crematorium.
The businesswoman was travelling back home with her husband, niece and brother-in-law when tragedy struck.
Bunwarie, who had two daughters, one of whom was late, suffered head injuries and died before she arrived at the hospital.
Her husband and two relatives were not injured.
In a statement issued today, Ntuli said he condemned the “reckless and senseless act” that claimed the life of Bunwarie, "a cherished mother and pillar of her family".
“On Sunday evening, her life was cruelly cut short when a car battery, carelessly thrown from a bridge near the Pavilion Shopping Centre, struck her vehicle while returning from a funeral.
“This appalling act of mischief and criminal recklessness has not only robbed a family of a beloved mother, but it has shaken the entire KwaZulu-Natal community.
"We cannot, and will not, tolerate such inhumane and cowardly behaviour that brings untold pain and trauma to innocent people."
Ntuli called upon law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts in apprehending the individuals responsible.
“We need justice, not only for Mrs Bunwarie but for all victims of violence and reckless criminality in our province. Furthermore, I have instructed the Department of Community Safety and Liaison to work closely with SAPS to increase police visibility and patrols in high-risk areas, particularly near bridges along major highways.
“We must ensure that incidents like these are prevented at all costs. The safety of our people is non-negotiable. Additional security measures, including the installation of surveillance cameras and heightened monitoring of bridges, will be explored urgently to deter such cowardly acts of violence,” he said.
Ntuli said members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement without delay.
“Together, as a community, we must stand united against those who seek to disrupt the peace and security of our province.
“May Mrs Bunwarie rest in peace, and may her family find strength in this time of mourning. Let this tragic incident serve as a solemn reminder of the importance of compassion, responsibility, and collective vigilance,” he said.