By REGINALD KANYANE
13 November 2026 – Nine people have died following a horrific road accident on the R502 near Shaft 10 in Orkney, involving a gold Volkswagen Combi transporting employees of the Nexgen Solar Plant to Alabama and Jouberton in Townships in Klerksdorp. According to preliminary reports, the driver of the Volkswagen Combi lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn.
North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Virginia Tlhapi, has expressed her deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the victims following the tragic incident on 13 November 2026. Tlhapi said six passengers were declared dead at the scene, while several others sustained injuries and were rushed to hospital for medical treatment.
“The department has since confirmed that an additional three passengers succumbed to their injuries in hospital, bringing the total number of fatalities to nine. We would like to express our heartfelt condolences to all those affected by the tragedy and wished the injured passengers a speedy recovery.
“Our thoughts and prayers are also with those who sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical attention in hospital. We wish them a speedy recovery during this difficult time,” she said.
Tlhapi further said her department expresses deep sorrow over the loss of life and urged motorists and transport operators to prioritise road safety, particularly during the busy festive season. She added that transport operators should ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy, conduct thorough pre-trip inspections and comply with all road traffic regulations.
“We also appeal to motorists to exercise extreme caution, remain vigilant and take responsibility for the safety of their passengers and other road users,” concluded Tlhapi.
