Nine people have died in KwaZulu-Natal following a crash between a truck and a passenger van.
The crash occurred early on Sunday morning in Empangeni.
KZN MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma described the incident as “horrific”.
“On this Mother’s Day, around 06:47, I received a report from our highly dedicated team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) informing me about a horrific accident that claimed the lives of nine people, mostly mothers.
“According to a preliminary report, this accident, which happened along the N2 northbound after Mthunzini Toll Plaza, involved a tow truck and a Hyundai H-1, which was transporting 24 members of the Zion Christian Church,” Duma said.
The members were travelling to Dukuduku in Umtubatuba.
Fatalities and serious injuries
“We have been informed by the RTI and emergency rescue services that a tow truck struck the rear end of the Hyundai H-1, resulting in fatalities and serious injuries. Those who were injured have been taken to hospitals and we wish them a speedy recovery.
“Equally, we express our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and the church,” Duma said.
A team has also been assembled to “liaise with the church and families during this difficult period”.
“I have also mandated the RTI to immediately keep in touch with the Road Traffic Management Corporation to ensure that an investigation is conducted around this horrific accident.
“We will be updating the people of KwaZulu-Natal as we move forward,” Duma said.
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