Van Reenen – The number of deaths from the unfortunate accident on the N3 at Van Reenen’s Pass, involving a truck, a minibus taxi, and a light motor vehicle, has been revised from 18 to 17.
KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma announced on Tuesday, (7 January 2025): “A total of 17 individuals were confirmed dead at the accident scene, not 18 as previously reported.”
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MEC Duma noted that a young girl, a passenger in the minibus taxi, was the only survivor.
“I have directed the Head of Department and the entire team to visit the brave little girl in the hospital,” he said.
“We take comfort in knowing she is on the path to recovery.”
“We express our gratitude to the healthcare professionals for providing exceptional care.”
MEC Duma also revealed that the haulage truck involved in the accident was driven by a 37-year-old Zimbabwean national named N. Mbedezi.
“There have been mixed reports about the whereabouts and specifics of the truck driver,” MEC Duma commented.
“Based on initial video footage obtained during the investigation, it appears that the minibus [taxi] lost control and veered into oncoming traffic, resulting in a head-on collision with the truck.”
“The reason for the minibus losing control remains unknown at this time.”
MEC Duma explained that the truck, owned by Pangolin Logistics, was en route from Johannesburg to Durban.
It was transporting two sealed bins and had only one occupant – the driver.
MEC Duma added that the minibus taxi was traveling from Durban to Johannesburg.
“We would also like to mention that a second accident involved a silver Renault Clio with two occupants who were also driving from Durban,” he continued.
“Regrettably, they drove over the bodies of passengers who had been ejected from the minibus taxi.”
“Fortunately, the two occupants were unharmed.”
MEC Duma indicated that authorities suspect that wet roads, low visibility, and excessive speed contributed to the tragedy.
At the time of the collision, which took place on Monday, (6 January 2025), around 20:30, conditions included heavy rain, darkness, and mist.
“We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives,” MEC Duma stated.
“At this moment, we wish to inform that, as confirmed by the minibus taxi owner, 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.”
MEC Duma announced that an investigation into the causes of the multi-vehicle collision has begun, led by a technical team overseen by the Head of the Department of Transport, Siboniso Mbhele.
As part of this investigation, the Road Traffic Inspectorate and South African National Road Agency met with the South African Police Service under the guidance of Major General Gonya, the Cluster Commander of Thukela District.
MEC Duma said: “Based on preliminary investigation findings, we would like to report the following:”
- A taxi linked to the UNcedo Taxi Association was traveling from Qumbu in the Eastern Cape to Johannesburg;
- There were 18 passengers on board, including the driver;
- Only 17 individuals were determined to have died at the scene, contrary to the previous report of 18;
- Only one person survived, a young girl.
Details of the deceased are as follows:
- Adult males: 7
- Adult females: 3
- Minors – boys: 3
- Minors – girls: 4
MEC Duma concluded: “Lastly, we wish to commend our dedicated team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate, Emergency Rescue Services, and other key personnel who responded swiftly during the rescue and cleanup operation.”
