Mr Kgwete confirmed that the unnamed diplomat was receiving medical attention in hospital, but denied reports he had been under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident, or that he would be criminally charged. Norway has tough laws against drunk driving.

Embassy officials enjoy immunity in their countries of deployment and can be criminally charged only once their home government recalls and dismisses them.

The incident reportedly took place on Sunday morning in Oslo. When confronted by police, who suspected drunk driving, the diplomat is said to have ventured into oncoming traffic, colliding with and injuring a paramedic.

Available: http://www.bdlive.co.za/national/2016/01/06/sa-diplomat-accused-of-accident-while-drunk