The accident scene.
Six people were killed on the R540 Road near Dullstroom when a GWM Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) and a minibus taxi collided on Sunday afternoon around 14:00.
According to the spokesperson for Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison (DCSSL) Moeti Mmusi, the collision was described as a T-bone type impact.
“All six victims, who were passengers in the minibus-taxi, died at the scene. Eight people sustained serious injuries, including seven passengers and the driver of the SUV. The driver of the taxi suffered only slight injuries. The injured are currently receiving treatment at a nearby hospital in Belfast,” he said.
He added that the cause of the crash is not yet known, and an investigation has already commenced.
Mpumalanga MEC for DCSSL Jackie Macie, reiterated a call for motorists to use the road with greater caution and heightened alertness to prevent deadly crashes.
“We remain deeply concerned by the number of fatalities caused by road crashes that could be avoided with more responsible driving. Motorists should always be mindful that their mistakes while driving could be devastating not only for them but for other road users,” Macie said.
He stated that it was unfortunate that while the importance of safe transportation of goods and people is highlighted during October Transport Month, people continue to lose their lives in road crashes.
He added that this needs to change, and motorists are an integral part of making the road safer.
The MEC extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished those who were injured a speedy recovery.
