Image used for illustrative purposes only.
Four people have died and 10 others were injured after a minibus taxi overturned on the R40 between Mbombela and Barberton near Hilltop on Friday evening, 17 July.
According to the Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, the crash occurred at approximately 19:00 when the minibus, travelling from Mbombela to Barberton, reportedly lost control and overturned. The male driver and two female passengers died at the scene.
Four passengers sustained critical injuries while six others suffered serious injuries. Emergency services responded to the scene, where the injured were treated before being transported to hospitals in Mbombela for further medical care.
The department has since confirmed that one of the critically injured passengers later succumbed to their injuries in hospital, bringing the death toll to four.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison's Safety Engineering team are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison Jackie Macie extended his sincere condolences to the families who lost loved ones and wished those injured a speedy recovery.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families during this difficult time and wish those receiving medical treatment a full and speedy recovery," said Macie.
The MEC also urged motorists to remain vigilant on the province's roads by obeying traffic laws, driving responsibly and exercising extra caution, particularly on busy routes such as the R40.
The department said further updates will be provided as investigations continue.