Delmas – Families affected by Monday morning’s fatal truck accident on 18 August 2025, which claimed eight lives on the N12 road in Delmas, are receiving support from the municipality, government departments and the community.
Lucia Fakude, speaking on behalf of the Nokhamandana family who lost a son, told Highveld Chronicle: “The mother is not in a good state after the loss of her loved one. The municipality has given us an envelope with R5,000 to help. The deceased is from Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape, and we are still waiting for assistance to transport the body home, which may take up to two weeks.”
The provincial Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison (DCSSL) and the Victor Khanye Local Municipality visited the families of the deceased to extend their condolences.
“During times of such loss, it is crucial that we come together as a community to support one another. The municipality is committed to assisting families with funeral arrangements, providing a hall, and offering free burial sites,” said Victor Khanye Local Municipality Mayor Buda.
The accident involved a truck transporting employees from Botleng township in Delmas to a nearby farm. Initial reports indicated six passengers died at the scene and two more succumbed to their injuries in hospital. Six others were seriously injured, and 11 sustained minor injuries.
The mayor also highlighted the additional support offered by some of the victims’ employers, including assistance with funeral preparations, skills development and potential employment opportunities for family members who may need them.
Mpumalanga DCSSL MEC Jackie Macie visited the scene and offered his condolences to the affected families.
“Despite all efforts by the government and its entities to reduce road crashes, the number of people losing their lives in these collisions continues to rise. It is essential that all road users remain alert and comply with traffic rules. Over 80 percent of road collisions are caused by human behaviour, and recklessness unfortunately claims innocent lives,” said MEC Macie.
The South African Police Service has opened a case, gathering evidence to uncover the cause of the crash and ensure accountability.
