The Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison notes with sadness a fatal crash that occurred on Monday, 13 July 2026 on the R23 between Perdekop and Standerton.
According to preliminary reports, a head-on collision occurred between an articulated truck travelling from Standerton and a sedan travelling from Perdekop.
Four occupants of the sedan, the driver and three passengers were declared dead on the scene. One passenger who sustained serious injuries was rushed to Standerton Provincial Hospital for medical treatment and later succumbed to injuries.
The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation. However, preliminary indications suggest that dangerous overtaking may have been a contributing factor.
The MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Mr. Jackie Macie, has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
"The number of fatal crashes on the R23 is a huge concern to the province. This stretch of road is becoming another death trap, and it means we must do more to enforce the law on the R23 and other problematic routes. Motorists must also play their part by driving safely and obeying the rules of the road," said MEC Macie.
The MEC has reiterated his call to law enforcement officers at all levels to act decisively against any form of recklessness and disregard for traffic regulations by drivers.
The Department continues to urge all road users to adhere to the rules of the road, and exercise extreme caution, especially on the R23 Road.
ENDS…
Issued by Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison.