Limpopo MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Violet Mathye, has expressed deep sadness following a tragic motor vehicle accident that claimed six lives, five of whom were relatives. The devastating crash occurred on Sunday along the D4170 road at Mopetsi Bridge in the Sekhukhune District.

According to the Department, the driver of a double-cab bakkie carrying eight occupants lost control of the vehicle, which veered off the road, instantly killing six people at the scene. Department spokesperson, Dali Tshifhiwa, confirmed that the remaining occupants sustained injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.

“These are difficult times, especially for the family who lost five immediate members. On behalf of the Department, I wish to convey sincere condolences to the families and next of kin, and I wish the injured a speedy recovery,” said Tshifhiwa.

He added that MEC Mathye expressed gratitude to the Executive Mayor of Sekhukhune, Cllr Minah Bahule, and her team for their leadership and support during this difficult period.

With the Festive Season approaching, the Department has reiterated its commitment to intensifying road safety efforts. Additional traffic officers will be deployed across the province as part of measures to reduce road fatalities. Road users are urged to exercise caution and prioritise safety at all times.

In a separate incident, two pupils also lost their lives and three others were injured in another motor vehicle accident in the Sekhukhune District on Friday afternoon. One of the deceased was a Grade 12 learner who had been driving a vehicle provided by his parents after running late for an exam earlier that day.

According to the Department of Education, all the pupils involved are from A.M. Mashego Secondary School, with the learners in Grades 10, 9, 11, and 12. The injured were rushed to St Rita’s Hospital for treatment. The cause of the accident is still under investigation.

These tragic incidents have left communities deeply shaken, renewing calls for heightened vigilance on the roads.