Durban Solid Waste worker dies in truck accident while on duty

Durban – A 40-year-old Durban Solid Waste (DSW) employee died in an accident while working on a refuse collection truck in the Durban CBD on Thursday.

Provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Nqobile Gwala said the incident occurred at 7am when a 40-year-old DSW employee lost his balance and fell off the truck.

“The driver, who wasn’t aware that his colleague was under the truck, reversed and drove over him,” said Gwala.

Gwala said the man died at the scene.

Sharmaine Sewshanker, the DA councillor for the area, said she arrived at the scene soon after the unfortunate accident.

Sewshanker said she spoke to the supervisor who was distraught.

She said the victim’s family was also at the scene.

“My condolences to the family, his loved ones and also to DSW. Losing an employee is a great loss to any company. My deepest sympathies from the DA and as the councillor of Ward 28,” said Sewshanker.

eThekwini Municipality confirmed the incident and described it as unfortunate.

“Our mayor (Mxolisi Kaunda) has sent his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased,” said municipal spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela.

The employees who were at the scene were receiving counselling, Mayisela said.

The police said a case of culpable homicide was opened at the Durban Central police station.

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