On New Year’s Eve in 2024, South Africans were celebrating the start of a new year, but the Eastern Cape was marred by a devastating car crash that resulted in the loss of eight lives and severe injuries to three others.
The collision occurred on the N2 road at Mazwayi location in Idutywa towards Mthatha, making it the deadliest accident in the region since the launch of the festive season “Arrive Alive” campaign.
According to the Eastern Cape Transport Department spokesperson, Unathi Binqose, the accident involved a Toyota Fortuner carrying six occupants from Dutywa, heading to Mthatha, and a Ford Kuga with five occupants from Mthatha, heading to Idutywa.
[ SAPS Advises South Africans To Celebrate New Year’s Eve Responsibly ]
Tragically, all five occupants of the Ford Kuga died at the scene, while two males and one female in the Toyota Fortuner also suffered fatal injuries. Both drivers were among the deceased.
The three male passengers from the Toyota Fortuner who survived the crash were immediately taken to Butterworth Provincial Hospital for further medical attention.
The circumstances surrounding the cause of the accident remain unknown at this stage, and the scene will be thoroughly investigated by various government authorities, including the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the National Departments of Transport (RTMC).
A culpable homicide docket has been opened at Idutywa SAPS to facilitate the investigation.
In another tragic incident, celebrated playwright and musician Mbongeni Ngema lost his life in a car crash on the R61 towards Port Edward in the Eastern Cape.
The accident occurred at around 4:30 pm last month when Ngema’s car collided with a truck traveling in the opposite direction. Ngema, who was returning from a funeral in the province, was accompanied by two other individuals.
All three occupants of the car sustained severe injuries, and Ngema was rushed to the OR and Adelaide Tambo Memorial Hospital in Mbizana, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival. Fortunately, the occupants of the truck escaped unharmed.
The cause of this tragic crash is also under investigation, and a case of culpable homicide has been opened at Bizana SAPS. The loss of Mbongeni Ngema, a highly regarded figure in the arts community, has left a void in the hearts of many. His funeral and memorial service will be held on Friday, January 5, 2024.
These heartbreaking incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of road safety and responsible driving. The Eastern Cape has experienced numerous accidents during the festive season, prompting the launch of the “Arrive Alive” campaign.
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