TRAGEDY ON THE N4
Roadworks Demand Extra Caution

Rustenburg – A tragic accident on the N4 near the Kroondal offramp on Friday, 5 September 2025, claimed the lives of four people and left others injured, highlighting once again the urgent need for motorists to exercise caution on roads where roadworks are underway.

The collision involved three vehicles: a paraffin tanker, a cash-in-transit van, and a Toyota Hilux bakkie with a trailer. The impact caused the tanker to catch fire, and emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene.

Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone of the SAPS confirmed fatalities and urged the public to remain patient and follow traffic officials’ instructions while investigations continue.

Rustenburg First Responders reported that two patients with minor injuries were transported to the nearest clinic by ER24 EMS. Tragically, four occupants of the truck and cash van lost their lives at the scene.

Rayno Dempers, special operations manager of Eagle Trauma Rescue EMS, assumed the role of scene commander and coordinated the efforts of Rustenburg First Responders, ER24, and the Rustenburg Fire Department. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives,” he said. 

Ammaar Wadee of Rustenburg First Responders added: “We thank all the teams who worked tirelessly under difficult and dangerous conditions.”

Authorities stressed the importance of slowing down and staying alert, especially in areas where road construction is ongoing. Roadworks often create bottlenecks, lane changes, and reduced visibility, making defensive driving essential.

The N4 was closed for several hours, while traffic was redirected through the R104.

Main photo: Firefighters battle the blaze at the accident scene on the N4 near the Kroondal offramp.