MEC Shongwe sends condolences to the families of nine R40 accident victims

MEC Shongwe sends condolences to the families of nine R40 accident victims  

By BRIAN KAJENGO

Mpumalanga Community Safety, Security and Liaison MEC Vusi Shongwe sends his heartfelt condolences to the families of nine people who died after a minibus overturned on R40 road near White River in Rocky’s Drift.

According to reports, the minibus which was coming from the direction of Kabokweni failed to stop at the intersection.

 With speed, it passed both lanes from White River and lanes from Nelspruit and hit a pavement. It then overturned and ejected the passengers including the driver out of the minibus.

Seven people died on spot while two who sustained serious injuries died in hospital. Seven occupants with slight injuries are treated in Rob Ferreira and Medi Clinic Hospitals.

Yesterday on the same spot, twelve people were seriously injured after four vehicles collided. According to reports, a minibus hit on the back of another minibus transporting tourists at the intersection connecting the Plaston Road and the R40. The two minibuses rolled and collided with a truck and a sedan on the R40.

MEC Shongwe says that this is a sign that motorists do not adhere to the rules of the road and the law must take its course to ensure that the drivers who caused these accidents if found guilty are prosecuted.

“Minibus drivers must always take a responsibility of the lives of passengers they are transporting. It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that his passengers reach their destination safe.

“Taxi owners must ensure that their drivers are properly trained and fit to be on the road. We can’t lose so many lives due to recklessness of drivers,” said Shongwe.

Meanwhile, the MEC wishes a speedy recovery to those in hospitals.