Traffic Officer Soothes Baby After Car Accident - Story Behind Viral Photo!
Photo Cred: Social Media | Cassim Qolo

Too often we see stories on social media depicting our law enforcement officers in a bad light, but this is an incredible moment that needs to be celebrated and shared.

 

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Western Cape, South Africa (27 January 2023) – A photo recently went viral showing a Cape Town Traffic Officer soothing a baby after a car accident. The mom was trapped in the vehicle and the 2-year-old was incredibly distressed but the officers didn’t hesitate for a second and comforted the little one while continuing with their duties.

Good Things Guy spoke to Cape Town Traffic Services spokesperson Maxine Bezuidenhout about the moment warming South Africa’s hearts.

On Sunday, the 8th of January 2023, at approximately 09:10 am, Traffic Officers Andisiwe Gxabuza and Sibongile Mqikela attended an accident scene on the N2 outbound in the vicinity of Macassa in the Western Cape.

Two motor vehicles were involved – one of the drivers was arrested by SAPS on suspicion of drunk driving while the emergency services assisted the second vehicle, which had four occupants inside – a couple, and their two children aged 2 and 11.

The children’s mother was trapped in the vehicle and had to be extricated.

The Officers decided to let the children sit in the patrol vehicle, but the 2-year-old was crying uncontrollably, and would not allow anyone to touch him.

He did not want to sit in the patrol vehicle with his brother but seemed to find comfort with Officer Gxabuza.

The Traffic Officers then decided to put the baby on Officer Gxabuza’s back to soothe him, as he wouldn’t stop crying. They requested a clean sheet from Metro EMS staff and tied the baby to her back, all while Officer Gxabuza continued with her duties in securing the scene and recording the details of the accident.

Within a few minutes, the baby calmed down and fell asleep.

Too often we see stories on social media depicting our law enforcement officers in a bad light, but this is an incredible moment that needs to be celebrated and shared.


Sources: Interview with Maxine Bezuidenhout 
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Brent Lindeque is the founder and editor in charge at Good Things Guy.

Recognised as one of the Mail and Guardian’s Top 200 Young South African’s as well as a Primedia LeadSA Hero, Brent is a change maker, thought leader, radio host, foodie, vlogger, writer and all round good guy.

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