Transport Minister expresses shock at fatal crash in Mpumalanga
Transport Minister Honourable Dipuo Peters has expressed deep sadness and shock following the untimely and unnecessary death of 15 people as a result a major crash on the R555 (old Witbank to Ogies road) in Mpumalanga.
Preliminary reports indicate that a truck and minibus taxi collided head on at approximately 17h00 on the R555 resulting in the death of 15 people and a serious injury.
The case has been reported to the Witbank South African Police Service.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has dispatched a team of crash and incident reconstruction and investigation experts to determine the cause of the crash.
“We are indeed deeply saddened by this tragic occurrence. We send our deepest and sincere condolences to the families, the relative and friends of those who lost their lives and we wish those injured a speedy recovery”, said Minister Peters.
The RTMC must work with the provincial and local Traffic Authorities and the South African Police Services in Mpumalanga. They must leave no stone unturned in getting to the bottom of the cause of this horrific crash, added the Minister.
The Road Accident Fund (RAF), an agency of the department will assist the families of the deceased and those injured with the necessary support during this period of grief.
Minister Peters has called on motorists, passengers and all road users to be and remain vigilant at all times on the roads. The Minister has called for a partnership with all of society in the fight against the carnage on South Africa’s roads.
“Road safety is a responsibility of every single one of us. Let us put all hands on deck and bring a stop to this carnage. Together, we can save millions of lives”, concluded the Minister.
Enquiries:
Tiyani Rikhotso
Cell: 083 570 1275
