SA Teacher Held In China After Fatal Wuhan Crash As Family Scrambles To Raise R2.2 Million

A South African teacher remains behind bars in China as his family urgently seeks to raise 880 000 renminbi (about R2.2 million) demanded in compensation after a fatal road accident in Wuhan.

The relatives of Francois Van Zyl de Kock have launched a public fundraising drive, saying they cannot afford the amount requested by the family of a Chinese woman who later died from injuries sustained in the incident.

South African Teacher Detained in Wuhan After Fatal Traffic Incident

Van Zyl de Kock, who hails from Vanderbijlpark in Gauteng, has been detained in Wuhan for the past three months following his arrest in connection with the crash.

According to a statement issued by his family, the incident happened on 3 August 2025 on a rainy evening as he travelled home on an electric scooter.

They explained that he had recently moved to Wuhan after teaching in Hainan Province. The relocation was intended to broaden his career prospects and allow him to pursue his interest in coaching rugby.

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“Francois contacted our family and expressed excitement about his new apartment, his recently purchased electric scooter, and settling into life in Wuhan. The following week, however, we did not hear from him, which caused growing concern.

“His brother, Hermanus, contacted his employment agent and was informed that Francois had been arrested in connection with a traffic accident,” the family said in a public plea for help.

Relatives said he was still unfamiliar with the city and had been sightseeing when a sudden downpour significantly reduced visibility.

He maintains that an elderly woman entered the roadway from in front of a bus at around 10pm. Due to the heavy rain and poor lighting, he believed there had been no impact and continued travelling.

Police arrested him at his residence two days later. Authorities have indicated that the woman died approximately one month after sustaining injuries linked to the collision.

Possible Prison Term and R2.2 Million Compensation Demand

Prosecutors have reportedly suggested a sentence of between three and four years’ imprisonment.

In addition to the potential jail term, the deceased woman’s family is seeking compensation of 880 000 RMB.

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In an online appeal, his brother, Zander de Kock, said the family considers itself middle-class and unable to meet the financial demand without public assistance.

They confirmed that Van Zyl de Kock is cooperating with Chinese authorities and has secured representation from two lawyers based in China.

Fundraising Drive Launched to Support Legal Battle

To help raise funds, the family has initiated what they describe as a legally structured promotional competition.

For every R100 contribution, donors receive one entry into a draw to win an original artwork by the late South African artist Frans Claerhout, valued between R55 000 and R80 000. A free entry option is available to comply with South African regulations.

The family said Van Zyl de Kock relocated to China to improve his financial position, provide for his hearing-impaired son and gain international experience.

They have spoken to him twice since his arrest, but say recent limits on communication have caused additional strain.

At the time of publication, the campaign had raised $1 407 (approximately R22 653.45) from 18 donors.