Four Dead in Multi-Vehicle Crash on Limpopo's N1 Highway Near Ysterberg Mountain

Tragic Collision Closes N1 Highway

Four people have tragically died following a multi-vehicle crash on the N1 highway near Ysterberg Mountain, outside Polokwane in Limpopo, South Africa. The collision, which involved three vehicles, occurred on Sunday, January 11, 2026, around midday, forcing the immediate closure of both northbound and southbound lanes of the critical national route.

Emergency services were swiftly dispatched to the scene, where all four victims were declared dead. Initial reports suggest that one vehicle may have crossed into oncoming traffic, resulting in a head-on impact and a chain reaction involving two sedans and a light delivery vehicle. The identities of the deceased have not yet been released, pending notification of their next of kin.

Road Closures and Traffic Disruptions

The severity of the accident necessitated the complete closure of the N1 in both directions near Ysterberg Mountain to allow for recovery operations and investigation by traffic officials. Motorists traveling between Polokwane and Johannesburg were advised to use alternative routes, specifically the R101. Transport spokesperson Dali Tshifhiwa stated, 'Road users going to Johannesburg and also Polokwane are advised to use alternative routes. The motorists travelling from Gauteng must use the Nyl Plaza off-ramp and join the R101 and those travelling to Gauteng must use the R101 from Polokwane.'

Second Fatal Incident on N1 in a Single Day

This fatal crash marks the second deadly incident on the N1 in Limpopo on Sunday. Earlier the same day, five people were killed when a Toyota minibus overturned on the N1-26/Lunds route in the Capricorn district. Limpopo's MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Violet Mathye, commented on the earlier minibus tragedy, noting that the vehicle was carrying 27 passengers, 'far above the required number,' and that a tyre burst was a 'possible cause' of that accident. These incidents underscore growing concerns about road safety on Limpopo's highways amidst rising traffic volumes.