Two separate major accidents this Sunday, November 26, claimed 10 lives on the N4 between Middelburg and eMalahleni, and towards Malalane.
Six people travelling in an SUV were killed on the spot when they crashed down the overpass where the N4 crosses over the Bethal road (R35). According to the spokesperson for the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Moeti Mmusi, the vehicle was travelling from Mbombela towards eMalahleni.
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Later in the evening, yet another four lives were lost following a head-on collision between an SUV and a light delivery vehicle (LDV) on the way to Malalane.
The deceased are two adult females and two children, all occupants of the SUV. Another passenger in the SUV, a child, was seriously injured. The driver of the LDV was also seriously injured.
Mmusi said the causes of the tragic incidents are now subject to investigation.
“The crashes are currently under investigation. We suspect that fatigue might have been the cause. The first crash included five males and one female. Their age group is still unknown at this moment,” he said.
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The Mpumalanga MEC for community safety, security and liaison, Vusi Shongwe, has once more appealed to drivers to use the road cautiously.
Shongwe sent his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. “We are deeply saddened by this development. We appeal to drivers to be more vigilant on the road. Those driving long distances are advised to take a break when they feel tired, because fatigue is dangerous.”
