Family and colleagues remember Principal Provincial Inspector Joseph Mtselu
Middelburg — Family, friends and colleagues gathered at the Eastdene Community Hall to pay their final respects to the late Principal Provincial Inspector of the overload control unit Joseph Mpumi Mtselu.
He was directing traffic on 14 October 2025 on the N4 Middelburg Weighbridge when a light delivery vehicle (LDV) towing a trailer hit him.
According to police the driver failed to stop and drove some distance before abandoning the vehicle.
“The driver seemingly hit the officer, who sustained serious injuries and sadly died at the scene. The vehicle was abandoned and the driver fled on foot,” Moeti Mmusi, Head of Communication for Mpumalanga DCSSL told Highveld Chronicle. “This is a tragic reminder of the risks our officers face on the road.”
Mmusi added: “We urge motorists to comply with traffic officers’ instructions at all times. Under K-53 regulations, their directives take precedence over any road signs. Officers are trained to enforce the law and protect lives, not to inconvenience drivers.”
Mmusi urged officers to always prioritise their safety while on duty. “If they cannot stop a vehicle safely, they should alert colleagues ahead to intercept it. Some motorists may be driving unroadworthy vehicles, transporting illicit goods or attempting to evade law enforcement, which can put everyone at risk,” he said.
During the emotional memorial service on 16 October 2025, speakers reflected on Mtselu’s professionalism, passion for his work and the light hearted spirit he brought to those around him.
Thulisiwe Letlalo, from the TOLCON Group of Companies, described Mtselu as a strict yet fun loving colleague who balanced seriousness with humour.
“Joseph was a dedicated person who knew his work well. He was very strict but also made the workplace enjoyable with his jokes,” said Letlalo. “Even when he was off duty, he would always help if you called him for assistance. He never complained. He loved his family deeply and always spoke about his two boys.”
Piet Ditsego, Mtselu’s supervisor, shared fond memories of their long working relationship that began in 2002.
“At first, his jokes used to annoy me,” Ditsego recalled with a smile. “I later learned not to take them personally because that was just who he was. Joseph was reliable and competent. Whenever I took leave, he would take charge without hesitation.”
Ditsego recounted how Mtselu’s passion for his work often showed on duty. “He was very strict about doing things the right way,” he said. “He also loved reading, sometimes he would come to work with a newspaper he had bought on his way.”
The supervisor was overwhelmed with emotions when recalling the tragic morning of the accident that claimed Mtselu’s life.
“When I got to the scene and saw him lying there, I couldn’t believe it,” said Ditsego. “Seeing the damaged vehicle made me realise how serious the crash was.”
Sesiki Makamo, head of the traffic department in Middelburg offices, said she had been with Mtselu earlier on the day of the accident.
“He even came to my house that morning because we had a matter to discuss,” she said tearfully. “When he left, he told me he had to go to work. Hours later, I received a call about the accident. It was difficult to even face his wife and tell her what had happened.”
