Three people — two passengers and the driver — were killed instantly when a minibus taxi overturned on the R40 between Mbombela and Barberton near Hilltop on Friday, 17 July 2026, at approximately 19h00.
The deceased include two females and the male driver.
According to preliminary reports, the minibus travelling from Mbombela to Barberton lost control and overturned. Four passengers sustained critical injuries, while six others sustained serious injuries.
Emergency services responded to the scene. The injured were treated and transported to hospitals in Mbombela for further care.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Safety Engineering team from the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Mr Jackie Macie, conveys his sincere condolences to the families who lost loved ones and wishes those injured a speedy recovery.
Motorists are urged to exercise caution, obey traffic laws, and remain alert, particularly on busy routes such as the R40.
Further updates will be provided once more information becomes available.
Issued by: Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison