LIMPOPO – The MEC for Transport and Community Safety Violet Mathye has urged motorists to exercise caution on all major routes following the death of 13 people in an early morning collision on the R40.

A minibus taxi and bakkie collided near Klaserie in Hoedspruit leading to the death of 10 people from the taxi and three from the bakkie.

Transport spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene says three critically injured passengers were transported to the Tinswalo Hospital for medical attention.

Other sources report eight people who passed on were employees of a well-known supermarket and were travelling with staff transport.

The two vehicles have since burnt.

“I am deeply shocked and saddened by this tragic incident. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families, next of kin, and the broader community who have lost loved ones. I wish a speedy recovery to those who sustained injuries,” Mathye said.

Chuene said an investigation into the cause of the accident is currently underway.