Polokwane – The Limpopo Provincial Government has released the names of the 12 people who lost their lives in Sunday’s horrific crash on the R81 near Ga-Sekgopo, as families gathered on Monday to identify their loved ones at Pietersburg Provincial Hospital.
All 12 victims, including a child aged seven, were in the Toyota Quantum minibus that was crushed between two articulated trucks on Sunday afternoon. They were travelling from a church service in Solomondale to Magoro village in Tiyani outside Giyani when the tragedy struck.
Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba, who was present during the identification process, conveyed her condolences to the grieving families.
“Our hearts are heavy as we stand with the families in their pain. We extend our deepest condolences and commit to supporting them during this unimaginable time,” said Dr Ramathuba.
Victims Identified
The deceased have been identified as Agnes Sambo, Collen Maluleke, Tyron Daphney Mabasa, Rose Mawila, Tintswalo Rose Nemurangoni, Masingita Mavhongo, Sarila Kayanene and a relative whose identity is yet to be confirmed, Tsakani Joyce Chauke, Gift Ngwenyama, Grace Baloyi, and Noko Rose.
According to authorities, a case of culpable homicide has been opened as investigations into the cause of the crash continue.
Families Remember Their Loved Ones
The victims’ families have begun to speak publicly about their loss, painting a picture of the lives cut short in the tragedy.
Speaking to IOL News, Tiyani Caspie Mawila described his late mother, Modjadji Rose Mawila, 62, as “a woman deeply devoted to prayer.”
“We were shocked and devastated to hear that our mother had passed,” Mawila said. “It was deeply daunting — we spoke to her just hours earlier before church. She always reminded us that ‘God is greater than everything.’”
Read | Limpopo Premier Pledges Support as Families Grieve R81 Crash Victims
The pain was compounded for the Mawila family, who are still mourning the death of their father, kidnapped and killed in 2024.
Another victim, Zamani Collen Maluleke, 33, who was driving the taxi, was remembered by his brother Solly as a dedicated father and respectful man.
“He was a great person and a good listener. He often drove congregants to church services and loved his work. We will remember him through his one-year-old daughter,” Solly told IOL.
Church Community in Mourning
All the deceased were members of Titanic International Church. What was meant to be a peaceful return from a spiritual gathering has now become a heartbreaking tragedy for the community.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa also extended their condolences, confirming that “one male driver, 10 female passengers, and one child aged seven perished in this crash.”
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