The process to identify 13 accident victims killed in a crash along the R40 road near Kapama in Hoedspruit, Limpopo, is set to get underway.
This as the Limpopo and Mpumalanga Provincial Governments will work together to identify victims of the accident that occurred on Saturday, 08 February.
A task team has been established and is scheduled to convene on Tuesday to commence with the identification process.
The fatal collision between a Toyota Quantum and a Ford Ranger, resulted in both vehicles being completely burnt with passengers trapped inside.
According to police reports, the Toyota minibus taxi, which was carrying nine passengers along with the driver, was involved in a head-on collision with the Ford bakkie which had five occupants.
“Sadly, all 10 people in the Quantum perished on the scene. It is believed that the occupants of the Quantum are from Mpumalanga province.
“Three passengers from the Ford Ranger also lost their lives, while three others sustained injuries and were transported to the hospital for medical treatment,” the Limpopo Provincial Government said on Monday.
READ | At least 13 die in Limpopo crash
In response to this tragedy, the Limpopo Provincial Government has established a team comprising officials from the Department of Health and the Department of Transport and Community Safety.
This team will work closely with officials from the Mpumalanga Provincial Government to facilitate the identification process and conduct DNA tests to ensure a dignified handover of the deceased to their families.
Limpopo Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, has commended the MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Violet Mathye and her team for their swift response following the accident.
The Premier has expressed her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
She also extended her sympathies to the Mpumalanga government, as some of the deceased were from the neighbouring province.
“This is a heart-breaking tragedy, and our thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones in this devastating accident. As we mourn, we also call for vigilance on our roads to prevent further loss of life. Our government will provide the necessary support to assist the affected families during this difficult time,” Ramathuba said.
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