Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa have expressed their condolences to the families of 14 people who died in a tragic crash on the N9 near Graaff-Reinet early this morning.

The accident, which occurred around 5:30 AM, involved a head-on collision between a Toyota Quantum minibus and a Hyundai Creta. All six occupants of the Hyundai and eight passengers from the Quantum lost their lives.

According to initial reports, the Hyundai was traveling from Middelburg to Graaff-Reinet, while the Quantum was heading in the opposite direction.

Eleven other passengers from the Quantum sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals.

Minister Creecy described the crash as a “heartbreaking tragedy,” adding, “Our thoughts are with the families who lost their loved ones. We wish the injured a speedy recovery.”

Deputy Minister Hlengwa emphasized the importance of road safety. “We urge all road users to exercise caution and take responsibility for their safety and the safety of others,” he said.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has deployed a specialised team to investigate the cause of the crash. The findings will be released once the investigation is complete.

Authorities continue to call for heightened vigilance on South Africa’s roads, especially during the holiday season.