Giant cell phone network MTN has crashed, leaving thousands of frustrated subscribers without coverage, the SABC reported on Saturday.

The network started giving problems early on Saturday afternoon.

The broadcaster phoned an MTN call centre spokesperson who didn't want to be identified. He said that engineers were aware of the problem and were working around the clock to fix the fault.

He said most parts of the country were affected.

Officials from MTN were not available for comment, the broadcaster said.

Sapa