A devastating bus crash in Limpopo has claimed five lives and left dozens of passengers injured after a Marcopolo bus lost control in the early hours of Thursday morning.
The accident occurred at approximately 02:50am on the N1-29 near Ingwe Lodge in the Vhembe District. According to Limpopo’s MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Violet Mathye, emergency services responded swiftly to the scene following reports of a serious collision.
Preliminary information indicates that the Marcopolo bus was travelling along the route when the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle. The bus veered off the roadway and eventually came to a stop in a roadside ditch.
Tragically, five people lost their lives in the crash. The deceased include the male driver, one female passenger, and three male passengers. Their identities have not yet been publicly released as authorities work to notify their families.
In addition to the fatalities, several passengers sustained injuries of varying severity. Four passengers were reported to have suffered serious injuries, while ten others were left critically injured. A further eighteen passengers sustained minor injuries in the incident.
Emergency medical personnel transported all injured individuals to nearby hospitals and medical facilities for urgent treatment. Health teams remain on high alert as they continue to provide care and support to those affected.
The crash has led to the temporary closure of the N1-29 near the accident site. Traffic officers, emergency responders, and investigators are currently working at the scene to clear debris and gather evidence. Motorists have been urged to use alternative routes and to expect delays while operations continue.
Expressing her condolences, MEC Violet Mathye extended heartfelt sympathies to the families and loved ones of the deceased.
“Our thoughts are with the loved ones of the deceased, and we pray for the swift healing of those hurt in this tragic incident,” she said.
Authorities have provisionally recorded the cause of the accident as driver loss of control. However, officials have cautioned that this is still subject to confirmation pending a full investigation. Accident reconstruction experts and law enforcement officers are expected to examine the vehicle, road conditions, and other contributing factors to determine the exact circumstances that led to the crash.
The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety has expressed gratitude to emergency responders for their quick and coordinated efforts at the scene. The department also used the opportunity to remind motorists of the importance of road safety, particularly during night-time travel when visibility is reduced and fatigue can become a significant risk factor.
This latest incident adds to growing concerns about road safety on major highways, especially involving public transport vehicles. Authorities continue to urge drivers to adhere to speed limits, ensure vehicles are roadworthy, and remain vigilant at all times.
Further updates are expected as investigations continue and more information becomes available.
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