Authorities urge caution after six members of one family die in N2 collision
N2 collision involving heavy-duty truck and light motor claims lives of six members of the Mnyango family
Motorists, particularly drivers of heavy-duty vehicles, are urged to exercise extra caution and patience on the roads to prevent further tragedy.
The call was made by uMfolozi Mayor Xolani Bhengu on Monday during a visit to the bereaved Mnyango family, who lost six relatives in a horrific accident on the N2 near Mtubatuba on Friday night.
The family members were reportedly travelling north when the vehicle collided with a heavy-duty truck.
Five occupants were declared deceased at the scene, while the sixth victim died in hospital on Saturday.
Bhengu was accompanied by King Cetshwayo District Mayor Sikhumbuzo Dlamini and members of their respective executive committees.
Following engagements with the grieving family, Bhengu told the media that the two municipalities had agreed to intervene and assist the family with funeral arrangements.
“In December, we also buried five family members who passed away in an accident in the Mposa area.
“We appreciate the involvement of the Department of Transport, both national and provincial, for their quick response. We have been told that Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa sent his delegation to meet with the family,” said Bhengu.
Those who died were identified as Nokuphakama Mnyango (85), Makhosi kaMnyango Mthembu (52), Mvuyani Gcaleka (4), Senamile Buthelezi (29), Banzi Buthelezi (6) and Ayanda Pearl Mthembu, who died on Saturday.
Transport MEC Siboniso Duma said he had no words to describe the pain the family was experiencing.
“We do not believe there are appropriate words we can use to stop the pain each surviving family member is experiencing,” said Duma.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Lindani Gcaleka said the loss was devastating.
“It is very difficult to comprehend what transpired. My elder brother was the driver of that vehicle. It is very hard to believe and also to say what we are going to do to conduct a mass funeral.
“But we have engaged with these two municipalities, and they have promised to assist with logistics and other support. If everything goes accordingly, they will all be laid to rest on Sunday,” said Gcaleka.
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