N2 closed after oil tanker overturns near Kei Cuttings

The Eastern Cape Department of Transport has announced the immediate closure of the N2 between Ndabakazi and the Kei Cuttings following a serious road incident involving an oil tanker.

According to the department, the tanker reportedly lost control, overturned and spilled a substantial amount of oil across the road surface, creating what officials described as “extremely hazardous driving conditions” for motorists.

Emergency response teams and other authorities were dispatched to the scene and are currently working to contain and clear the spill while assessing the safety of the affected area.

The department said the section of road will remain closed until further notice to allow for emergency operations, clean-up efforts and a full safety inspection.

Motorists travelling through the area have been urged to avoid the route and cooperate with traffic officials and law enforcement officers managing the closure.

Authorities warned that the road surface remains slippery and dangerous due to the oil spill. Road users have also been cautioned not to attempt to bypass roadblocks or temporary closures put in place around the scene.

The Eastern Cape Department of Transport appealed for patience from the public while emergency crews continue working under difficult conditions to make the road safe again.

Alternative routes are expected to be communicated to motorists by officials on site, with traffic officers redirecting vehicles where necessary.

The incident adds to growing concerns around hazardous driving conditions on Eastern Cape roads during recent adverse weather and difficult travel conditions affecting several parts of the province.

No further details regarding injuries or the cause of the crash had been confirmed at the time of publication.

The department said further updates on the reopening of the N2 would be issued as more information becomes available.