Mapaballo Borotho
- Both directions of the N1 near Ysterberg Mountain have been closed following a deadly three-vehicle crash, with motorists urged to use alternative routes.
- Authorities say there are indications of serious fatalities, while emergency services remain on the scene.
- In a separate incident, five people were killed after an overloaded Quantum overturned in Limpopo, allegedly due to a tyre burst.
Motorists travelling between Polokwane and Johannesburg have been urged to use alternative routes after a horrific crash involving three vehicles forced the closure of both the northbound and southbound lanes of the N1 near Ysterberg Mountain.
Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety spokesperson, Tshifhiwa Dali, confirmed that emergency and traffic services are currently at the scene, with early indications pointing to serious fatalities.
“Indications are that there are serious fatalities. Road users travelling to Johannesburg and Polokwane are advised to use alternative routes. Motorists from Gauteng must use the Nyl Plaza off-ramp and join the R101, while those travelling to Gauteng should use the R101 from Polokwane,” said Dali.
In a separate incident, five people were killed in the early hours of Sunday morning after a Toyota Quantum overturned on the N1-26 route in the Capricorn District, Limpopo.
The minibus taxi, which was carrying 27 passengers, far exceeding its legal capacity, reportedly suffered a tyre burst, suspected to be the cause of the crash.
The driver and 11 passengers who sustained minor injuries were transported to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.
“Our hearts go out to the families of the five passengers who lost their lives, three females and two males. We wish the injured a speedy recovery. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragedy,” Dali added.
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