Cofimvaba–Ngcobo Road Horror: Three Dead, 14 Hurt

Tragic Head-On Crash Near Forty Junction

Three people were killed and fourteen others injured in a devastating head-on collision between a VW Polo and a Toyota minibus taxi on the R61 between Cofimvaba and Ngcobo near Forty Junction on Friday afternoon.

The vehicles, travelling in opposite directions, collided with great force, leaving wreckage scattered across the road. Emergency services and police responded swiftly to the scene, where both vehicles were extensively damaged.

Passengers and Casualties Confirmed

According to Eastern Cape Department of Transport spokesperson Makhaya Komisa, the VW Polo, carrying three women and two men, was travelling from the Cofimvaba direction, while the Toyota minibus, carrying fourteen people, was travelling from Ngcobo.

“Three occupants of the VW Polo died instantly,” Komisa said. “Two men from the Polo, including the driver, and six people from the taxi, including its driver, sustained serious injuries but were not in critical condition. Eight others suffered minor injuries.”

Injured Taken to Cofimvaba Hospital

All the injured passengers were transported to Cofimvaba Provincial Hospital for medical treatment. Hospital staff worked through the evening to stabilise patients with multiple fractures, bruises, and head injuries.

Preliminary reports suggest that recklessness and negligence may have played a role in the crash. However, police investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause.

MEC Condemns Reckless Driving

Eastern Cape Transport and Community Safety MEC Xolile Nqatha expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and wished those injured a full recovery.

“Our hearts go out to those who lost loved ones in this tragic crash. We continue to urge motorists to obey road rules and remain alert, especially on busy rural roads like the R61,” Nqatha said.

He also emphasised that careless driving continues to claim innocent lives and called for renewed focus on road discipline and driver responsibility.

Dangerous Route Under Scrutiny

The R61 between Komani, Cofimvaba, and Ngcobo is known for its high accident rate, with authorities frequently citing speeding and unsafe overtaking as major contributors.

Residents have previously raised concerns about poor visibility and sharp bends along the route, particularly near Forty Junction. The Department of Transport has promised to step up road safety campaigns and visibility patrols in the Chris Hani District Municipality ahead of the festive season.

Police Investigation Underway

A case of culpable homicide has been opened, and accident reconstruction experts are assisting to determine how the vehicles collided. Both vehicles have been towed for further examination.

Officials have urged witnesses to come forward with any information that could assist the investigation.