Early this morning, at around 7am, three vehicles, a truck, a light delivery van, and a Correctional Services minibus, were involved in a horrific crash on the N2 in Swellendam. The crash claimed the lives of eight Correctional Services officials, leaving another four seriously injured. The injured were transported to the Swellendam Provincial Hospital.
It is believed that the head-on collision occurred when the light delivery van was struck from behind by the truck, causing it to veer into the path of the oncoming Correctional Services minibus, resulting in the crash. Provincial Traffic Services has closed the N2 until further notice, while the SAPS conduct a full forensic investigation.
On behalf of the Western Cape Government, I should like to extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those that have lost their lives, and wish the injured a speedy recovery.
I have also extended our condolences to the Regional Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, as well as the management of the Buffeljagsrivier Correctional Services Centre, who have suffered a tragic loss.
We will assist the SAPS in their investigation, and will continue to work tirelessly, in partnership with the citizens of this province, to make our roads safer. Deaths on our roads are not only tragic and unfortunate, but are entirely avoidable through responsible road use, and complete adherence to the rules of the road.
