A fatal collision on the N2 highway near Dutywa, Eastern Cape, has claimed the lives of 11 people, leaving the province and the nation in shock and mourning. The accident, which occurred on Saturday evening, involved a minibus taxi and a bakkie, resulting in one of the region’s most harrowing road tragedies in recent memory.
Emergency services rushed to the scene but were met with devastating sights of mangled vehicles and loss of life. According to the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, both drivers and nine passengers succumbed to their injuries, while several others were critically injured and transported to nearby hospitals.
[BREAKING NEWS] 11 people have died in an accident between a minibus taxi and a bakkie outside Dutywa in the Eastern Cape.
Tune into #Newzroom405 for more. pic.twitter.com/1Jr44igVgX
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) December 22, 2024
Preliminary reports suggest that the minibus taxi, carrying passengers to a nearby village, collided head-on with the bakkie. Authorities are investigating possible causes, including reckless driving, fatigue, and poor road conditions.
Eastern Cape Transport Department spokesperson Unathi Binqose expressed sorrow over the tragic event. “This is an incredibly dark day for our province. Our thoughts are with the families affected by this horrific accident. Losing 11 lives in such a manner is heart-wrenching,” Binqose said.
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane echoed these sentiments, calling for enhanced road safety measures. “We must address the alarming rate at which lives are lost on our roads. Strengthening road safety campaigns and ensuring stricter law enforcement are crucial steps to prevent future tragedies,” he stated.
As the festive season approaches and traffic volumes increase, authorities have urged motorists to prioritize safety by exercising caution and adhering to traffic laws. The accident has reignited concerns over road safety in South Africa, particularly in rural areas where poor road infrastructure and non-compliance with regulations contribute to frequent fatalities.
Investigations into the crash are ongoing, with officials committed to uncovering the root cause of the tragedy. Families of the victims are being notified, and support services have been made available to those affected.