Four killed in head-on collision on R23 in Mpumalanga on Thursday

Four killed in head-on collision on R23 in Mpumalanga on Thursday

Mapaballo Borotho

• A head-on collision on the R23 between Standerton and Perdekop in Mpumalanga killed four adults in a sedan.
• The driver of a light delivery vehicle and a child were seriously injured.
• Authorities are investigating the cause, with reckless driving not ruled out, while MEC Jackie Macie urged road users to follow traffic rules and stay safe.

Another head-on collision has killed four people on the R23 between Standerton and Perdekop in Mpumalanga, when a sedan crashed into a light delivery vehicle on Thursday, 08 January 2026.

All four were adult occupants of the sedan, including the driver, who died on the scene. The driver of the light delivery vehicle and a child are seriously injured and are receiving medical care in Standerton.

The cause of the accident is under investigation, but reckless driving cannot be ruled out.

Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, said the loss is tragic for the families and a huge blow to the community.

He warned that reckless driving and failure to obey road rules burden insurers and the government with hefty claims.

“We urge all road users to adhere to the rules, stay alert and concentrate fully to avoid deadly crashes,” Macie said.

He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

Meanwhile, traffic officers remain on standby to ensure that motorists abide by the rules of the road and that all road users arrive safely at their destinations.

As festive holidays near an end with most people returning to work and school, traffic volumes are expected to increase on major routes.

“We need to appreciate the motorists who always remember that it is their responsibility to ensure safety when on the road. We will continue to encourage those who break the law to respect the rules of the road. Road safety is everybody’s business, which is why we encourage all users to play their part by using it responsibly,” Macie added.