The Limpopo Department of Transport has confirmed that five people have died and two others were injured in a horrific car crash along the N1 near Ysterberg Mountain, outside Polokwane.

Department spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene says the crash occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning when two sedans collided head-on before bursting into flames.

Four of the five victims were burnt beyond recognition. The driver of one vehicle and another passenger survived the crash with injuries and were rushed to the hospital.

Chuene says the exact cause of the collision is still under investigation, but reckless driving has not been ruled out.

“MEC for transport and community safety in Limpopo Violet Mathye expresses deepest condolences following a tragic accident earlier today on the N1. A head-on collision between two vehicles resulted in the loss of five lives. Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause.”