A serious motor-vehicle accident that left many people dead and several others injured has led to a temporary closure of the N2 between Heidelberg and Swellendam.

The crash occurred about 9 km outside Heidelberg in the direction of Swellendam at 10:00. Emergency services, including rescue and traffic officials, were on the scene on Tuesday.

Authorities confirmed that the collision had resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, although the exact number of victims as well as their identity had not yet been released at the time of posting.

The Provincial traffic chief Maxine Bezuidenhout said three people have lost their lives, and a further 14 people have sustained injuries. She confirmed that a minibus and a light motor vehicle was involved in the accident.

Motorists were urged to avoid the area, with traffic diverted via Slangrivier and Vermaaklikheid while emergency personnel cleared the scene ad investigators determined the cause of the crash.

The N2 remained closed on both directions and motorists were advised to expect significant delays in clearing traffic. Police were expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Isaac Sileku Provincial Minister of Mobility said in a press release that their thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected.