A horrific head-on collision on the M17 road in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, claimed the lives of seven people on Sunday, April 5, 2026. The tragic incident occurred between KwaZakhele and Motherwell when a Renault Triber, carrying seven occupants, collided with a Fuso Manganese Truck.

According to Unathi Binqose, Spokesperson for the Transport Department, all seven individuals travelling in the Renault Triber — comprising three men and four women — died instantly at the scene. Fortunately, the driver of the Fuso Manganese Truck survived the devastating crash. At the time of the accident, the Renault Triber was en route from KwaZakhele to Motherwell, while the truck was traveling in the opposite direction, descending from Motherwell towards KwaZakhele.

The exact cause of this fatal accident remains unknown as investigations are currently underway. A case of culpable homicide has been opened at the Swartkops police station as authorities seek to determine the circumstances leading to the collision.

MEC for Transport, Xolile Nqatha, has expressed profound sorrow and offered his deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. “We are deeply saddened by this devastating loss of seven lives in a single incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones in such tragic circumstances,” Nqatha stated. He reiterated a call for all road users to exercise extreme caution, demonstrate patience, and strictly adhere to road safety rules, especially during periods of high traffic. The department has also affirmed its commitment to stepping up law enforcement operations to enhance road safety and prevent future tragedies.