The Eastern Cape Department of Transport has confirmed that an accident that occurred on the N2 near Makhaphetshwini outside Mthatha over the weekend has claimed eight lives.
Department spokesperson Unathi Binqose said seven victims died on the scene while another died upon arrival in hospital.
The accident occurred when two minibus taxis, travelling in opposite directions, collided head-on on Sunday, May 14 around 14:00.
“The cause of the accident is yet to be established and currently under investigation by various authorities, including the national Department of Transport and the South African Police Service,” Binqose said.
Meanwhile, the King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) Local Municipality has expressed shock at the incident while also conveying condolences to the bereaved families of the deceased.
“KSD executive mayor Nyaniso Nelani and the entire municipality is saddened by the news of the accident that claimed the lives of eight people on the N2 just outside Mthatha. We wish to send our deepest condolences to the families whilst at the same time we would like to wish the injured a speedy recovery,” said KSD mayoral spokesperson, Olwethu Mabovula.
According to a report from the provincial Department of Transport, a minibus taxi travelling from Mthatha towards Qumbu with three occupants collided with another travelling from Qumbu towards Mthatha with six occupants.
The driver of the minibus taxi that was travelling from Mthatha towards Qumbu is among those who died in the accident.
A case of culpable homicide is currently being investigated by Libode police.
In an update released this morning, Binqose said plans to put safety features such as speed calming on the N2 stretch between North Crest and Dan’s Country Lodge outside Mthatha are at an advanced stage.
“The Eastern Cape Department of Transport had lobbied the national roads agency SANRAL to increase safety features on that stretch following a string of serious and often fatal crashes.
“The scene of yesterday’s horrific crash is the spot where the department launched its Easter Arrive Alive Campaign last month. During the launch, Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha further highlighted the need for some speed calming measures on that road,” Binqose said.
Between now and the implementation of the safety plans, Nqatha has urged motorists and pedestrians alike to be extra cautious at all times.
