Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has expressed deep sorrow following a tragic accident involving two trucks and a minibus taxi, which claimed the lives of 12 people, including a young girl.

Initial reports suggested that 13 people had died in the crash. The horrific collision occurred on the R81 in Ga-Sekgopo, Capricorn District, on Sunday afternoon.

Authorities confirmed that all those who perished were passengers and the driver of the taxi, which had been transporting congregants from a church service in Solomondale back to their homes in Giyani.

While reports suggest that the taxi was crushed between the two trucks, officials are still investigating the exact cause of the accident.

According to Premier spokesperson Thilivhali Muavha, emergency services and rescue teams worked tirelessly at the scene. “This afternoon, the Premier is scheduled to meet the grieving families at the Pietersburg Hospital Recreation Hall to assist with the painful identification process of the deceased,” he said.

Ramathuba will be joined by the MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Violet Mathye, and the MEC for Health, Dieketseng Mashego.

The Department of Transport and Community Safety will provide regular updates. The R81 was reopened in the early hours of Monday morning.

“The provincial government stands in solidarity with the families during this difficult time and is committed to providing them with the necessary support. We urge all road users to exercise caution and adhere to safety regulations,” Muavha added.