The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport has confirmed that an arrest has been made following the death of ANC Provincial Task Team member and KwaZulu-Natal Legislature Member Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba, who was fatally struck by a vehicle while jogging in Newcastle on Saturday morning.
Mahlaba's death was confirmed by the African National Congress (ANC), which described the incident as a devastating loss to both the organisation and the broader liberation movement.
KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya said the South African Police Service (SAPS) is leading the investigation and has confirmed that a suspect has been arrested.
Sibiya said police are investigating a case of culpable homicide and that the person believed to have been driving the vehicle at the time of the incident is now in custody.
He added that while the department has been kept informed of developments, it is allowing SAPS to carry out its investigation without interference.
"We have been informed by SAPS that they are investigating a case of culpable homicide and that they have arrested the individual who was behind the wheel. As is standard procedure, we will allow the police to conduct a full investigation," Sibiya said.
Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding Mahlaba's death are continuing.