RTMC investigates Isipingo horror crash that left 11 dead, calls for accountability
Eleven people died in an accident on the R102 near Isipingo on Thursday.
Image: Doctor Ngcobo / Independent Newspapers
Demands for stronger road safety measures and stricter law enforcement have grown after a devastating crash on Wanda Cele Drive (R102) in Isipingo on Wednesday, which killed 11 passengers.
The accident occurred at approximately 8:30am on January 29, 2026, involving a minibus taxi and a truck. In the wake of the collision, Transport MEC Siboniso Duma has called for criminal charges against both drivers and the vehicle owners, The Mercury reported.
In response to the catastrophe, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has dispatched a team of investigators to uncover the circumstances leading to the crash, in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS). The RTMC expressed its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the disaster, labelling the incident as an “angled collision”.
“The Road Traffic Management Corporation conveys deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the eleven passengers who lost their lives in a tragic road crash,” an RTMC spokesperson stated.
They emphasised the need for motorists to exercise “heightened caution, patience, and adherence to road traffic laws”, particularly during peak traffic hours, to avert further tragedies.
As reported by The Mercury, The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) KwaZulu-Natal expressed its profound sadness over the incident, confirming that the taxi was travelling from Emsikweni when it collided with the truck near Lotus Park, Isipingo. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the 11 passengers who lost their lives in this unfortunate incident,” said SANTACO KZN.
SANTACO KZN Office Manager Sifiso Shangase urged drivers to comply with road safety regulations, particularly during adverse weather conditions. “Drivers are encouraged to always adhere to the rules of the road. With the current rainy weather conditions, it is critical that drivers exercise extra caution,” he advised.
The organisation also strongly condemned overloading and reiterated the rights of commuters. “As an organisation, we discourage overloading; we also remind passengers that they have a right not to board an overloaded vehicle,” SANTACO KZN's statement noted.
The African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal has rallied behind calls for criminal accountability, citing serious mechanical failures and compliance violations uncovered during preliminary assessments at the scene.
“The ANC fully supports Cde Duma’s call for the relevant drivers and vehicle owners to face the full consequences of their actions, including criminal charges where culpability is evident,” commented the party in a statement.
They expressed concern that negligence on the roads has dire consequences and asserted that recklessness continues to endanger innocent commuters.
“We call on law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned to ensure that all those found to have contributed to this accident, in any way, are held accountable,” the ANC statement emphasised.
Meanwhile, the ALS Paramedics, who were among the first emergency responders on the scene, acknowledged the emotional toll of the incident on families and emergency personnel.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic accident today,” they stated. ALS acknowledged the professionalism and compassion of their team and other emergency services who responded under challenging circumstances.
ALS extended condolences to the bereaved families, saying, “To everyone who tragically lost their lives today, rest in peace. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected.”
Authorities confirmed that injured victims were transported to Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital, and eThekwini Hospital for treatment.
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