The death toll in the accident that occurred at Okashandja village on the gravel road between Ondangwa and Uukwiyuushona has risen to seven, with two of the victims being a couple.

Four people died at the accident scene, while three later succumbed to injuries at the hospital.

It is alleged that the driver of a white Toyota pickup was driving from Ondangwa to Uukwiyuushona when the driver lost control of the vehicle and collided head-on with a white Toyota Rush that came from the opposite direction.

The 66-year-old male driver of the Toyota pickup died on the spot, while the 46-year-old female driver of the Toyota Rush sustained minor injuries.

The Oshana Police have identified the deceased passengers from the Toyota pickup as 66-year-old David Tomas, the driver of the vehicle; his wife Leena Lukas, age unknown, who died at Onandjokwe Hospital; 73-year-old Jacob Petrus; 67-year-old Teodor Akwaake died on the spot; 35-year-old Immanuel Johannes died at Onandjokwe Hospital; 21-year-old Nehale Amupolo; and 36-year-old Festus Kondjeni died at the Onandjokwe Hospital.

Three survivors are hospitalised, with two in critical condition.

Oshana Police Regional Commander Commissioner Naftal Sakaria has called on drivers to exercise caution, especially when driving on gravel roads.

"Perhaps just to caution road users, especially on gravel, that it's unpredictable, and to take care of the speed because sometimes when you apply the brake, it might move in the direction of another vehicle."