The scene of the bus accident on the R33.
Five passengers were killed in a bus crash that occurred on the R33 Road between eMkhondo and Amsterdam on Monday afternoon, December 01.
According to the spokesperson for Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison (DCSSL) Moeti Mmusi, the driver of the bus reportedly lost control, causing the bus to overturn.
“In addition to the five fatalities, six passengers were seriously injured, while 20 other occupants escaped with slight injuries. The bus driver is among those injured. Various ambulance services responded to the scene and transported the injured to a nearby hospital in eMkhondo,” he said.
Mmusi also said the crash is currently under investigation.
It is, however, suspected that the prevailing wet weather conditions may have been a contributing factor.
Initial reports incorrectly suggested the bus carried over 80 passengers.
According to the reports at the scene the bus had 65 names when it departed Johannesburg. Due to passengers disembarking at various stops along the way, there were only 31 occupants, including the driver, at the time of the crash.
The MEC for DCSSL Jackie Macie, is appealing to all drivers to adjust their driving according to the prevailing road conditions, especially in wet weather.
“Every driver must prioritise their own safety and that of other road users. Let us save lives by being highly alert and obeying the rules. Long-distance drivers must rest sufficiently along the way,” said Macie.
MEC Macie extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished those who were injured a speedy recovery.
