The Eastern Cape Department of Transport has warned motorists to exercise caution following the deaths of 18 people in three separate road crashes over seven days. Among these incidents, a truck accident in Mcetheni Location, Bizana, claimed six lives on Saturday morning.
The truck was carrying about 30 passengers travelling from Mswakazi in the Port St Johns area to attend a traditional ceremony when the driver reportedly lost control on a gravel road, causing the vehicle to overturn. According to eNCA, two men and four women died in the crash.
Several injured passengers from the Bizana crash were taken to Holy Cross Provincial Hospital in Flagstaff for treatment. Independent reports from The Informer and eNCA confirm the casualties and medical response.
Unathi Binqose, Provincial Transport Spokesperson, expressed sorrow over the incidents, saying, “Losing 18 lives from three separate EC crashes within seven days is deeply disheartening and of course six more families are now mourning the loss of their loved ones that has just occurred in Bizana. The MEC for Transport in the Eastern Cape, Mr Xolile Nqatha is extending his sincere word of condolences to the affected families and wishing those in hospital a speedy and a full recovery. A call is made on motorists in particular to remain extra vigilant on our roads to stop this bloodbath.”
Eastern Cape MEC for Transport Xolile Nqatha added, “We are deeply saddened by this loss of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and the injured. Eighteen lives lost in three crashes within seven days is a painful reminder of the devastating impact of road crashes on our communities.”
This spate of fatal crashes highlights ongoing safety challenges on provincial roads, particularly gravel routes in rural areas like Bizana. The accidents place added strain on local emergency services and healthcare facilities, while communities face the lasting impact of such losses.
Authorities have not yet confirmed final investigations into the cause of the Bizana truck crash beyond initial reports that the driver lost control. The identities of the deceased and number of injured remain unverified publicly. Exact crash times vary across reports.
The Eastern Cape Department of Transport continues to monitor the situation and urges all motorists to prioritise road safety, especially on challenging routes. Cape Flats.co.za will provide updates as further verified information becomes available.