Less Crashes, More Lives Lost on Mpumalanga Roads This Festive Season
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Mpumalanga recorded fewer road crashes during the 2025/26 festive season, but far more people lost their lives.
From 1 December to 11 January, the province logged 733 crashes, a decrease from the previous year. However, road fatalities rose to 172, which is 29 more deaths than last festive season.
Authorities say crashes are becoming more severe and deadly, with young adults aged 19–35 the most affected. Most accidents happened between 2pm and 6am, especially on weekends, and are linked to speeding, fatigue and alcohol abuse.
The Ehlanzeni District saw a decline in deaths, showing that targeted enforcement works, while Bohlabela District experienced an increase in fatalities.
Despite the loss of life, Operation Shanela made progress in crime prevention, with over 2,300 arrests across Mpumalanga. The Lebombo Port of Entry also processed more than 783,000 travellers during the period.
MEC Jackie Macie says government will strengthen night-time and weekend traffic enforcement, but stressed that personal responsibility is key, saying no amount of policing can replace responsible road behaviour.
From 1 December to 11 January, the province logged 733 crashes, a decrease from the previous year. However, road fatalities rose to 172, which is 29 more deaths than last festive season.
Authorities say crashes are becoming more severe and deadly, with young adults aged 19–35 the most affected. Most accidents happened between 2pm and 6am, especially on weekends, and are linked to speeding, fatigue and alcohol abuse.
The Ehlanzeni District saw a decline in deaths, showing that targeted enforcement works, while Bohlabela District experienced an increase in fatalities.
Despite the loss of life, Operation Shanela made progress in crime prevention, with over 2,300 arrests across Mpumalanga. The Lebombo Port of Entry also processed more than 783,000 travellers during the period.
MEC Jackie Macie says government will strengthen night-time and weekend traffic enforcement, but stressed that personal responsibility is key, saying no amount of policing can replace responsible road behaviour.
