Seven learners from three schools in Rietpan and Driefontein were killed and 24 others injured when the driver of the truck they were travelling in lost control of the vehicle and it overturned.

The spokesperson for the Education Department, Elias Malindi, says: “We were in a meeting with traditional leaders, the local municipality and the departmental officials. We are going to offer counselling at all affected schools, and that counselling to all affected families.”

OFM News earlier reported that at least 30 school pupils from Ratsela Middle School and Letlhakane Primary School in Rietpan Village near Zeerust were involved in an accident when the driver of the bakkie they were travelling in lost control and hit a tree - claiming six lives on the spot. One learner later died in hospital. 

The MEC for Education in the province, Maphefo Matsemela, said the learners went to play soccer at Borakalalo Village, and on their way back were involved in the accident at an intersection between Lobatla and Driefontein. Both Lehari and Matsemela have sent their condolences to the families and further described the incident as unfortunate, as it took place when learners were preparing for their final examinations.

Meanwhile, spokesperson Sabata Mokgwabone, says the police are investigating a case of culpable homicide.

SABC News