Key Takeaways:
- A tragic multi-vehicle crash occurred on the R61 road near Ngcobo, Eastern Cape, resulting in the deaths of nine people and injuring eight others.
- The crash involved three vehicles: a Toyota minibus taxi, a Toyota Avanza, and a GWM Steed bakkie.
- The incident happened on Thursday, December 31, 2025, at around 10am at Beyele, between Ngcobo and Cofimvaba.
- The cause of the crash is still unknown and is under investigation by the police, with a case of culpable homicide being investigated.
- The local mayor has extended condolences to the families of the victims and urged all road users to exercise caution.
Introduction to the Incident
A devastating multi-vehicle crash occurred on the R61 road near Ngcobo, Eastern Cape, resulting in the loss of nine lives and injuring eight others. The incident happened on Thursday, December 31, 2025, at around 10am at Beyele, between Ngcobo and Cofimvaba. According to the Department of Transport spokesman Unathi Bhinqose, three vehicles were involved in the collision: a Toyota minibus taxi, a Toyota Avanza, and a GWM Steed bakkie. The minibus taxi, carrying 16 occupants, was traveling from Ngcobo town towards surrounding rural areas when it collided head-on with the Toyota Avanza, which had four occupants.
Details of the Crash
The impact of the collision was severe, and the Toyota Avanza suffered significant damage. Unfortunately, four occupants of the Toyota Avanza and five occupants of the Toyota minibus taxi were declared deceased at the scene. One additional victim succumbed to injuries upon arrival at All Saints Provincial Hospital in Ngcobo, bringing the total number of fatalities to nine. Eight injured occupants from the minibus taxi were transported to the hospital for medical treatment. The GWM Steed bakkie, which was also involved in the collision, sustained damage but no injuries were reported among its occupants.
Investigation and Response
The cause of the crash is still unknown and remains under investigation by the relevant authorities. A case of culpable homicide is being investigated by the police, and it is hoped that the investigation will shed light on the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. The local authorities have responded quickly to the incident, with the Department of Transport and the police working together to investigate the cause of the crash. The mayor of Dr AB Xuma, Siiyabulela Zangqa, has also extended condolences to the families affected by the crash and urged all road users to exercise caution.
Condolences and Support
The mayor’s message of condolence is a testament to the community’s shock and sadness at the loss of life. The families of the victims will undoubtedly need support and care during this difficult time, and it is heartening to see the local authorities and community coming together to offer their condolences. The mayor’s call for road users to exercise caution is also a timely reminder of the importance of road safety, particularly during peak travel periods. As the investigation into the crash continues, it is hoped that the cause of the incident will be determined, and measures can be taken to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
Conclusion and Reflection
The tragic multi-vehicle crash on the R61 road near Ngcobo, Eastern Cape, is a sobering reminder of the risks and dangers associated with road travel. The loss of nine lives and the injury of eight others is a devastating consequence of this incident, and it is essential that we learn from this tragedy to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. As we reflect on this incident, we are reminded of the importance of road safety and the need for all road users to exercise caution and adhere to the rules of the road. The community’s response to the incident, including the outpouring of condolences and support for the families of the victims, is a testament to the resilience and compassion of the human spirit.