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Eastern Cape Premier, Oscar Mabuyane, has sent messages of condolence to the families of eight people who died in a head-on collision between two mini-buses near Mthatha.
The Eastern Cape Transport Department said six people died on the scene, while three people who sustained various injuries in the crash near Sìbangweni, were rushed to hospital.
Two others later succumbed to their injuries.
"Our prayers go out to the bereaved families during this time of sorrow. This is a sad incident with an impact that families who lost loved ones and survivors will feel for years to come," Mabuyane said.
Premier Mabuyane has also called on vehicle crash investigators to conduct a thorough investigation which will shed light on the cause of the crash and contribute to strengthening road safety education in the province.
The ANC in the Eastern Cape also offered a message of condolence to the families of the victims.
Spokesperson, Gift Nqondi, said it was a sad day for the Province and a chilling reminder that despite the best efforts of our road traffic enforcement authorities, the numbers of lives lost to accidents on our roads remain worrying high.
"We send our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and we call on the Department of Transport, Department of Social Development, Road Accident Fund, and all relevant authorities to provide all the necessary support and assistance to the families in this difficult time," Nqondi said.
The Eastern Cape Transport Department said the circumstances surrounding the accident will be investigated, while a case of culpable homicide was registered at Libode SAPS.
