Head-on collision on N2 claims two lives, 19 hurt

Two people have died and 19 others were injured following a head-on collision between a minibus taxi and a Toyota LDV on the N2 road between Mthatha and Qumbu on Thursday evening.

The crash occurred when the two vehicles, travelling in opposite directions, collided head-on. The minibus taxi was transporting 15 occupants from Qumbu, while the Toyota LDV, travelling from the Mthatha direction, reportedly had three occupants.

Emergency services responded to the scene where two male victims were declared dead. Authorities have not yet released their identities, pending notification of their families.

A total of 19 people sustained injuries in the crash. Some were reported to be in critical condition. The injured were transported to various hospitals in Mthatha for medical treatment.

Eastern Cape Transport and Community Safety MEC Xolile Nqatha urged motorists to exercise caution on the roads.

He warned drivers to obey traffic rules and remain vigilant at all times, particularly on busy routes such as the N2. The MEC also conveyed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

A case of culpable homicide linked to reckless and negligent driving is expected to be opened at South African Police Service (SAPS) in Libode. Authorities have confirmed that investigations into the cause of the crash are underway.

This latest incident adds to growing concerns about road safety on major Eastern Cape routes, where serious collisions continue to claim lives and leave families devastated.