FOURTEEN people have died and six others were injured in two separate crashes in Sekhukhune District, Limpopo.
Five killed in first crash
The first crash happened on the R555 between Stoffberg and Rossenkraal in the Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality.
The accident involved a VW Polo, a combi and a truck, leaving five passengers dead at the scene.
Authorities say reckless driving cannot be ruled out, while investigations continue.
Nine killed in second crash
The second deadly crash happened on Road D4370 between Phokwane and Mamphogo in the Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality.
It involved a VW Polo and a Toyota Tazz. Preliminary investigations suggest speeding may have caused the crash.
The collision claimed the lives of four people travelling in the Polo and five in the Toyota Tazz, bringing the death toll from both accidents to 14.
Six other passengers were injured in the two crashes and rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
MEC shocked by loss of life
Limpopo Transport and Community Safety MEC Susani Violet Mathye expressed shock over the tragic loss of life.
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Department spokesman Dali Tshifhiwa said the MEC described the incidents as a dark day for the district.
The dark cloud is hanging over Sekhukhune District. On behalf of the Department and the people of Limpopo, we extend our sincere condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and wish those injured a speedy recovery."
— said Tshifhiwa.
Motorists urged to drive safely
The department has urged motorists to obey the rules of the road, avoid reckless driving and take a break after every two hours when travelling long distances.
Traffic officers have been deployed to monitor crash hotspots, while the department said the public will be updated after engagements with the district and local municipalities.
