Van Reenen – The death toll from the tragic 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): “Seventeen people were pronounced dead at the scene of the accident, not 18 as initially reported.”

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MEC Duma highlighted that a young girl, a passenger in the minibus taxi, was the only survivor.

“I have instructed the Head of Department and the entire team to visit the brave little girl in the hospital,” he stated.

“We find solace in knowing she is recovering.”

“We are grateful to the healthcare professionals for their exceptional service.”

MEC Duma further revealed that the haulage truck involved in the incident was operated by a 37-year-old Zimbabwean national, N. Mbedezi.

“Contradictory reports have emerged regarding the whereabouts and details of the truck driver,” MEC Duma remarked.

“Based on video evidence obtained during this preliminary investigation, it is clear that the minibus [taxi] lost control, veered into oncoming traffic, and collided head-on with a truck.”

“The reason the minibus lost control is still under investigation.”

MEC Duma explained that the truck, owned by Pangolin Logistics, was traveling from Johannesburg to Durban.

It was carrying two sealed bins and the only occupant was the driver.

MEC Duma noted that the minibus taxi was on its way from Durban to Johannesburg.

“We would also like to mention that a second accident involved a silver Renault Clio with two occupants driving from Durban,” he added.

“Sadly, they drove over the bodies of passengers who had been ejected from the minibus taxi.”

“Fortunately, neither of the two occupants was harmed.”

MEC Duma indicated that authorities suspect wet roads, poor visibility, and excessive speed were contributing factors in the disaster.

The collision occurred on Monday, (6 January 2025), at approximately 20:30, under conditions of heavy rain, darkness, and mist.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased,” MEC Duma expressed.

“At this moment, I would like to note that, according to the owner of the minibus taxi, the families of the deceased have been identified and informed.”

“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 the initiation of an investigation into the causes of the multiple-vehicle collision, led by a technical team under the supervision of the Head of the Department of Transport, Siboniso Mbhele.

As part of the investigation, the Road Traffic Inspectorate and South African National Road Agency met with the South African Police Service under the leadership of Major General Gonya, the Cluster Commander of Thukela District.

MEC Duma stated: “Based on the preliminary findings of the investigation, we would like to report the following:”

  • A taxi affiliated with UNcedo Taxi Association was traveling from Qumbu in the Eastern Cape to Johannesburg;
  • There were 18 passengers onboard, including the driver;
  • Seventeen individuals were declared dead at the scene, correcting the earlier 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: “Finally, we wish to commend our dedicated team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate, Emergency Rescue Services, and other key personnel who rapidly responded during the rescue and cleanup efforts.”