In a media and public statement by the MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma, it has been confirmed that the initial report of 18 dead has been revised to 17.

The accident between the taxi and a truck took place on Monday evening (January 6).

“As indicated yesterday evening and this morning, we have launched an investigation into the causes of this accident that has shocked the whole country. : says the report.

A technical team led by the Head of the Department of Transport Siboniso Mbhele, Road Traffic Inspectorate and South African National Road Agency met with the South African Police Service under the leadership of Major General Gonya, the Cluster Commander of Thukela District.

Based on the initial stages of the investigation, we wish to report the following:-

1. A taxi affiliated to UNcedo Taxi Association was travelling from Qumbu in the Eastern Cape to Johannesburg;
2. There were 18 passengers, including the driver;
3. A total of 17 people were declared dead on the scene of the accident, not 18 as initially reported.
4. Only one (1) person survived.
5. The details of the deceased are as follows:-
a. Adults males: 7
b. Adult females: 3
c. Minors – boys: 3
d. Minors – girls: 4
e. Only surviving passenger – is a girl child.

Investigation has uncovered the identity of the driver – a 36-year old Zimbabwean National.

At this stage, we wish to indicate that according to the owner of the minibus taxi, the families of the deceased have been identified and notified.

Arrangements are being made by the owner and UNcedo Taxi Association for family members to travel to Ladysmith to identify their loved ones.

From the video footage obtained during this initial stage of the investigation, it is very clear that the minibus lost control and swerved toward the right oncoming traffic lane and collided with a truck head on, the reason for this is  unknown at this stage.

Issued by the MEC for Transport and Human Settlements