Eleven learners died on the scene when the minibus that was transporting them to school collided with a side tipper truck, causing it to veer off the R553. No arrests have yet been made.

According to the police, the body of one of the learners was found crushed under the minibus taxi, and another learner later died in hospital. Gauteng police have confirmed that both drivers are under investigation.

Four other pupils are being treated at various hospitals after suffering severe injuries. “As for now, it's still early to confirm how far we are with the investigation,” said Vanderbijlpark police spokesperson Mavela Masondo. 

“More charges are expected to be added pending investigations. Both drivers survived the crash, and the driver of the scholar transport vehicle was injured and had been taken to the hospital.”

The scene remains active as officials continue to comb the area, with police investigations also moving to accountability. Police will also be looking into whether the vehicle had been overloaded, whether it was roadworthy, and whether the driver was intoxicated, he said.

The learners from different primary and secondary schools were travelling in a Toyota Quantum on Monday (19/1) when the vehicle collided with a truck.

Gauteng traffic police spokesperson Sello Maremane said 12 learners died at the scene, while one succumbed to injuries at the hospital. “Officials were alerted at around 06:00 about an accident involving a truck and a minibus taxi carrying school children.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that the minibus driver attempted to overtake a vehicle in front of him and did not notice an oncoming truck, resulting in a head-on collision.”

Most precious assets

Statements will be collected from eyewitnesses, including the driver of the scholar bus, who survived the accident, he said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa also expressed his condolences to the families, teachers, and classmates of those involved. “Our children are the nation’s most precious assets, and we must do all we can, from observing the rules of the road to the quality of service providers appointed to transport scholars, to protect learners.

“National and provincial authorities will provide families and schools with the necessary psychosocial support.”

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OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh