Cape Town – Five people died on Thursday night after a sedan collided with an articulated truck on the R23 between Balfour and Greylingstad in Mpumalanga, in one of several fatal crashes that have renewed concerns over road safety in the province.
The Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison said the collision occurred at about 7.30pm on 8 January 2026, adding that all five victims were occupants of the sedan.
Mpumalanga Community Safety spokesperson Moeti Mmusi said emergency services remained at the scene late into the evening as investigations got under way to determine the exact cause of the crash.
“The collision happened around 19:30… all five people declared dead at the crash scene had been travelling in the sedan when tragedy struck,” Mmusi said, urging motorists to exercise caution, particularly on long-distance journeys.
As traffic volume picks up in the country’s major roads, the Mpumalanga Provincial Government has intensified measures to deal decisively with motorists who violate traffic rules.
On Sunday dozens vehicles travelling between Mpumalanga and Gauteng were recorded on the N4 road.… pic.twitter.com/gsghoLfae2
— Mpumalanga Provincial Government (@MpumalangaGov) January 5, 2026
The provincial government also extended its condolences to the families of the deceased. In a statement, the department “conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.”
Earlier the same day, another fatal collision claimed four lives on a different stretch of the R23 between Standerton and Perdekop when a sedan collided head-on with a light delivery vehicle.
Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison Jackie Macie described the incident as “a tragedy for the families and a huge blow to the community.”
Macie reiterated a firm warning against reckless driving and noncompliance with traffic laws, saying such behaviour not only endangers lives but also places a burden on insurers and government resources.
“We urge all road users to adhere to the rules, stay alert, and concentrate fully to avoid deadly crashes,” he said, underlining the urgency of responsible driving.
Road safety advocates echoed these calls, encouraging motorists to take regular rest breaks, ensure vehicles are roadworthy and observe speed limits, especially as traffic volumes rise on major routes.
“Drivers are also urged to take regular rest breaks when traveling long distances,” a spokesperson added, urging motorists to avoid fatigue-related accidents.
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Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
