A tragic accident involving a taxi traveling from Sehlabathebe to Qacha's Nek has left one passenger dead and several others seriously injured.

The accident, which occurred at Ha Mojaki involved 13 people, with reports of broken limbs among the survivors.  One passenger remains in critical condition and is unable to speak. The heavily damaged vehicle was rendered beyond repair. Victims were rushed to Machabeng Government Hospital, where one passenger succumbed to injuries.

Three passengers were later transferred to Queen 'Mamohato Memorial Hospital in Maseru, while five remain hospitalized at Machabeng. Four others were treated and released. Initial investigations suggest overspeeding as a primary cause.

Tsatsalemo Taxi Association Treasurer, Mr. Ts'otleho Nteke, mentioned that reports revealed that the accident may have been compounded by a jammed steering mechanism and faulty brakes.

"We suspect the driver lost control of the vehicle due to overspeeding," he noted, adding that the area is known for frequent speed-related issues. "We are saddened by the incident, especially as this driver has long experience on this route."

Nteke also explained that the Association regularly discusses road safety issues, including penalties for drivers caught drinking on duty. However, he acknowledged that monitoring speeding remains challenging without cameras, relying instead on police assistance.

Qacha's Nek Traffic Police Manager, Sergeant Teboho Pali, confirmed a case of reckless driving has been opened, with ongoing investigations. He urged drivers to follow road laws and prioritize passenger safety, especially in hazardous weather. "Driving at high speeds in harsh weather conditions often leads to preventable accidents," he warned.

According to reports, Lesotho’s Road Safety recorded an average of 4,000 road accidents annually from 2016 to 2019, with a slight decrease to 2,563 in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Under the Road Traffic Act of 1981, reckless driving can result in fines of up to M2,000 and two years in prison, while negligent driving carries penalties of up to M1,000 and a one-year sentence.