Accident Alerts

Seven Killed in Head-On Crash on M17 in Gqeberha

Published

4 months ago

April 5, 2026

Photo: Supplied

A devastating head-on collision on the M17 road between KwaZakhele and Motherwell in Gqeberha has claimed the lives of seven people, prompting renewed concerns about road safety in the Eastern Cape.

The crash occurred at approximately 15:00 on Sunday afternoon and involved a Renault Triber carrying seven occupants and an articulated Fuso manganese truck.

All occupants of light vehicle killed

According to information released by the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, the Renault Triber was travelling from KwaZakhele towards Motherwell when it collided with the truck, which was travelling in the opposite direction.

The vehicle was transporting three males and four females.

All seven occupants of the Renault Triber were declared dead at the scene by emergency services.

The driver of the truck survived the collision and was treated for trauma.

Emergency response and road impact

Emergency services remain on the scene, and the road has not yet been fully reopened to traffic.

Authorities have urged motorists travelling in the area to proceed with caution or make use of alternative routes as operations continue.

A case of culpable homicide has been opened at Swartkops SAPS, and investigations into the cause of the crash are underway.

MEC expresses condolences

Eastern Cape Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the crash.

He described the incident as a devastating loss and reiterated the importance of road safety, especially during periods of increased traffic volumes.

The Department of Transport has indicated that law enforcement operations will continue to be intensified in an effort to reduce crashes and prevent further loss of life.