A CYCLIST was critically injured after an accident on Edwin Swales Drive on Sunday and it was initially feared that he was a hit-and-run victim.
A passersby found Sicelo Xaba unconscious and lying face-up on the road following the incident.
His injuries included a broken leg and head trauma and was since moved to the King Edward Hospital, where he continues to receive treatment.
However, Xaba’s mother, Ntombizodwa Khanyile, disputed the hit-and-run claims.
“The driver did not flee. In fact, he went to the police to give a statement. It’s not true that he ran away from the scene,” she told the Daily News.
On her son’s condition, Khanyile said he was showing signs of recovery and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support.
“I’m at the hospital with my child right now, and he is recovering well. I want to thank everyone who has been praying for his recovery. We’re hopeful he’ll be out of here soon,” she said.
A fellow cyclist, who asked not to be named, described the moment he discovered Xaba after the accident.
“I found him unconscious and helpless on the road. By the time I arrived, the driver had already left the scene. We rushed him to the hospital, and that’s all I can say,” he said.
Sicelo’s close friend Musa Ngcobo said he was devastated by the incident.
“It is painful to see my friend in hospital. But he is a fighter and will pull through. He is in my prayers,” said Ngcobo.
Neil Robinson, CEO of cycling advocacy group Pedal Power Association (PPA), voiced concern over the growing number of hit-and-run incidents involving cyclists.
“We are deeply concerned about this latest case in KZN, where a cyclist was struck and the driver reportedly left the scene. This trend is unacceptable, illegal, and must be addressed,” Robinson said.
He urged law enforcement and the National Prosecuting Authority to take swift action.
“There needs to be real consequences for these crimes. We’re seeing more and more of these incidents, and the perpetrators must be held accountable,” he added.
Local ward councillor Neo Solomon also commented on the incident, expressing sadness over the extent of Xaba’s injuries.
“I was heartbroken to learn he had to be intubated in the ICU. I visited the hospital on Sunday evening and met with some of his family. A paramedic who attended to him also checked on him again this morning,” said Solomon.
At the time of publication, provincial police had not yet responded to requests for comment.
DAILY NEWS