A head-on collision between a minibus taxi and a bus on a misty Mpumalanga road on Thursday morning claimed the lives of 10 people.

The crash occurred on the R39 between Standerton and Morgenzon at around 05:15, with all the victims being occupants of the minibus taxi, including the driver.

According to the Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, eight people died at the scene while a ninth person succumbed to their injuries while being transported to hospital. A tenth victim died later while receiving treatment at a hospital in Standerton.

The minibus taxi was travelling from Morgenzon to Standerton, while the bus was heading in the opposite direction at the time of the collision.

The bus driver sustained minor injuries and one passenger escaped unharmed.

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The department said the road was misty at the time of the crash, which may have significantly reduced visibility for motorists.

While the exact cause of the collision remains under investigation, the provincial department said reckless and negligent driving cannot be ruled out at this stage.

MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison Jackie Macie extended condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

The incident adds to the growing number of fatal accidents on Mpumalanga’s roads, with authorities repeatedly urging motorists to exercise caution, particularly during poor weather conditions.

Police are investigating a case of culpable homicide.