RTMC team deployed to probe deadly Eastern Cape crash

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has deployed a team of investigators to probe the cause of an accident that claimed the lives of 15 people in the Eastern Cape.

It is understood white Toyota Quantum minibus and an Isuzu double-cab collided head-on on the R63 road between Adelaide and Maqoma (Fort Beaufort) at about midnight on Saturday.

Thirteen people from the Quantum, including the driver and the driver of the double cab, died at the scene.

Six Quantum passengers were rushed to Provincial Hospital, and sadly, two succumbed to their injuries, bringing the total to 15.

‘Saddened’

Minister of transport Barbara Creecy and the deputy minister of transport, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, have expressed their condolences to the bereaved families who lost their loved ones in the fatal road crash.

“They are deeply saddened about the turn of events amid a successful Easter road safety campaign and have also expressed their wish for a speedy recovery to those who were hospitalised,” Creecy’s spokesperson Collen Msibi said.

“This tragic loss of lives underscores the importance of road safety as an individual responsibility. The Department, through RTMC, is investigating the cause of the accident in collaboration with the Saps and provincial authorities. A preliminary report is expected in 48 hours.”

Road inspection

The EFF said the department should do more to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians on SA roads.

“The EFF calls upon the Department of Transport and all relevant authorities to ensure that all roads, especially those in rural and high-traffic areas, are regularly inspected and maintained to prevent such tragedies; to increase the presence of traffic officers to monitor and enforce road safety regulations effectively,” the party stated.

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Easter safety campaign

The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) President, Abnar Tsebe, said they are also saddened by the loss of lives.

“This is a heartbreaking loss for the affected families and the country at large,” said Tsebe. “It is especially devastating as it follows shortly after a successful Easter road safety campaign during which no major crashes were recorded on the national roads.

“This tragic incident is a reminder of the importance of sustained road safety awareness, visibility of law enforcement, and daily reinforcement of responsible driving behaviour”.

Santaco extended its condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the crash and wished a full and speedy recovery to those who were injured.

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