At least seven people have lost their lives in two separate road accidents on Mpumalanga highways, prompting renewed concern over road safety in the province.
In the first incident, four people were killed in a collision involving a bakkie and a car on the R38 between Kaapmuiden and Louws Creek near Barberton on Monday night. According to provincial transport authorities, all four victims were occupants of the car. Authorities did not find any occupants of the bakkie at the crash site.
An investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the collision and the whereabouts of those believed to have been in the bakkie.
In a second fatal crash, three people died in a head-on collision between a sedan and a light delivery vehicle on the R23 between Val and Balfour. The victims include the female driver of the sedan and two male occupants of the light delivery vehicle.
According to Mpumalanga Community Safety spokesperson Moeti Mmusi, all three victims were burned beyond recognition in the aftermath of the collision. The cause of the crash has not yet been established.
Authorities are urging motorists to exercise caution and adhere to road regulations as investigations into both incidents continue.