MIDDELBURG – A tragic accident involving a truck and a multipurpose vehicle on the R35 road between Bethal and Middelburg claimed the lives of three people, including a toddler, on Friday night.
The victims died on impact, while six others sustained injuries—three seriously and three with minor injuries. The injured are currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Middelburg.
Preliminary reports indicate that one of the drivers may have entered the R35 when it was unsafe to do so, leading to the devastating collision.
Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Mr. Jackie Macie, expressed deep concern over the rising number of fatal crashes on the province’s roads.
“We remain undeterred in our mission to enforce road safety laws to prevent the needless loss of lives. However, the behaviour of some motorists remains a huge concern, especially in light of the fatal crashes recorded since Thursday,” said Macie.
He further emphasized that law enforcement visibility will be intensified across all major routes in the province and urged road users to act responsibly.
“I appeal to all those travelling to prioritise their safety and that of other road users. Reckless and negligent driving must be avoided at all costs,” Macie added.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing.
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