INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPERS
Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele. Photo: Dumisani Dube
Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele conveyed condolences to the families of 18 people killed in an accident outside Belfast in Mpumalanga on Thursday.
“We want to convey our condolences to the families of those killed in this horrific crash,” he said in a statement.
A minibus taxi veered out of its lane and collided head-on with a truck on the N4 around 4am, Mpumalanga public safety spokesman Joseph Mabuza said.
“The truck dragged the minibus and both vehicles caught fire. All the 18 people, including a two-year-old baby, were burnt beyond recognition,” he said. The truck driver was among those killed.
The taxi was en route from Mozambique to Johannesburg, while the truck was travelling from Johannesburg to Nelspruit.
Ndebele repeated his vow that drivers who disobeyed road rules would be shown no mercy.
“Our society has degenerated to a level where some drivers continue to display a blatant disregard for human life.”
He said his department, the police and justice ministries, as well as the National Prosecuting Authority would continue dealing with irresponsible drivers aggressively in order to save lives.
“A motorist proven to have intentionally caused death through a road accident will be charged with murder,” he said.
“Our law enforcement and emergency services officials are out in full force to ensure safety on the roads, especially for the December holidays.”
Mpumalanga community safety MEC Vusi Shongwe sent condolences to the victims’ families later on Thursday.
“It is unfortunate for the province to start a festive season with such a tragic accident. We will not rest this festive season, and reckless drivers will be arrested.” – Sapa
Read More:
Minister’s condolences to crash victims’ families