The MEC for Roads and Transport, Lehlogonolo Masoga, Vhembe District Mayor Tshitereke Matibe, Makhado Mayor David Mutavhatsindi and Thulamela Mayor Grace Mahosi visited victims of the weekend’s horror taxi accident at the Louis Trichardt Memorial Hospital on Tuesday.

Eight people burnt beyond recognition in an accident on the Makhado (Louis Trichardt) – Thohoyandou road next to the Albasini Dam on Thursday evening. Four passengers were also injured.

“We are here as government because we know that these are difficult times for the families. We are here to offer our condolences. This no longer a family tragedy, but a national tragedy," Masoga said. He said the government was worried about the increasing number of accidents on the roads.

“This is a serious concern as more innocent lives are lost on our roads. All stakeholders need to come together and work with the government to come up with initiatives aimed at decreasing the fatalities on our roads.”

Matibe expressed his condolences to the family of the victims and said they would be sorely missed. He added that community members around the Vhembe area were deeply touched by the horror of the accident. “Understandably, it is very difficult to continue with everyday life after such a traumatic experience and the family is in need of support, “he said.

Makhado SAPS spokesperson W/O Takalani Madzhigili said that the police’s forensic unit was still busy with tests and the DNA results would be released after four to eight weeks.