The KZN Department of Transport announced that five people lost their lives in horrific accident involved two vehicles along N2 before Umzumbe River Bridge on Friday night.
The MEC for Transport and Human Settlements in KwaZulu-Natal, Siboniso Duma confirmed that five people who were travelling with Suzuki died on the scene.
"Five people, believed to be from the same family, have perished in this head on collision involving a Suzuki Light Motor Vehicle and a Seven Seater Minibus.
Three children, aged 3-5, and adults believed to be the mother and the father have died instantly," said Duma.
He mentioned that two people who were travelling with a Seven Seater Minibus were rushed to the nearest hospital because sustained injuries.
"Other victims, a female and a 14 year old male have been rushed to the nearest hospital.
From the 7 seater, two people sustained injuries," he added.
The MEC passed condolences to the affected families and also clarified that the department will handover the matter to the police for further investigations.
"We wish to express our deepest condolences to the families of deceased.
"I have assigned a team from my office to liaise with local community leaders including Sibonelo Cele who is currently at the scene of this accident.
"At this stage, we wish to indicate that RTI team will provide a preliminary report this evening.
"But, in line with procedures involving such horrific accidents, we have handed over the matter to the SAPS for further investigations.
Critically, we request motorists to avoid the N2 as the accident scene is still active. RTI is redirecting traffic to Hibberden," concluded Duma.