MEC Kaunda orders investigation into two major fatal crashes in the province

MEC Kaunda orders investigation into two major fatal crashes in the province

August 12, 2019 • Road

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Mxolisi Kaunda has ordered a thorough investigation into two major crashes that occurred in the province this weekend.

Yesterday, six people died in a minibus taxi in Pomeroy. The taxi, which was transporting young girls to an event, was travelling from Pomeroy to Durban. Preliminary investigations revealed that the driver lost control of the vehicle before it veered into the ditch. Nine people, who were injured, were taken to Dundee and Umsinga Hospitals. The death toll from the crash has risen to seven after one child passed away in hospital.

Another horrific crash which claimed five lives occurred this morning when two vehicles collided in Folweni, south of Durban. According to the police, a Toyota Corolla collided head-on with a Toyota Quantum on the M35. All five people in the Toyota Corolla died on the scene. Sixteen passengers from the minibus taxi were taken to Prince Mshiyeni Hospital.

Kaunda has conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and wished those in hospitals a speedy recovery.

“It is unfortunate that in 24 hours we have lost so many lives in crashes that could have been avoided if people abided by the rules of the road. I have ordered the police to conduct a thorough investigation on both crashes and establish their cause,” said Kaunda.

Department of Transport officials and the Road Accident Fund are currently engaging with the families of the deceased to assist them with funeral arrangements. “As a caring government, we will be working closely with the families of the deceased to ensure that their loved ones are given a dignified burial,” said Kaunda.

He urged road users to continue to exercise caution and adhere to the road rules to save lives. Police will maintain a strong presence on major roads in the province as holidaymakers are heading back home after the long weekend.

“We have asked the police to intensify law enforcement operations and focus on drinking and driving, over-speeding and unroadworthy vehicles. Let us all obey road rules so that we can save lives,” said Kaunda.

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Fatal Crashes KZN Transport