45 people killed in bus crash!

A HORRIFIC bus accident that killed 45 passengers has left the people of Limpopo reeling in shock and fear. 

This comes after the bus carrying congregants believed to be heading to an Easter pilgrimage plunged into the Mamatlakala Bridge, some 50 metres down along the R518 road outside Mokopane.

Following the crash, the bus ignited into flames, killing almost all passengers. The bus had a total of 46 people on board, including the driver. The incident left 45 passengers dead, while an 8-year-old girl survived and has been hospitalised.

The driver lost control, colliding with barriers on the bridge, causing the bus to go over the bridge and hit the ground, where it caught fire. Rescue operations continued until the late hours of Thursday evening, 28 March, as some bodies were burned beyond recognition, others trapped inside the debris, and others scattered on the scene.

The bus was allegedly from Gaborone in Botswana, en route to Moria outside Polokwane. 

Speaking at the scene while on her way to road safety operations along the road, Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga extended her deepest condolences to the families affected by the tragic bus.

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"I am sending my heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the tragic bus crash near Mamatlakala. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time," she said.

Chikunga said they continue to urge responsible driving at all times with heightened alertness as more people are on the roads this Easter weekend. 

She said the police continue to provide updates as the rescue and recovery efforts unfold.

"I assure the public that the precise cause of the crash is under thorough investigation," said Chikunga.

The accident comes after Limpopo Transport and Community Safety MEC Florence Radzilani warned those who will be undertaking longer trips during this Easter period to observe occasional rests and ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy to avoid crashes.

Transport and Community Safety spokeswoman Tidimalo Chuene said the process to confirm the citizenship of the victims will only commence after the foreign missions of both South Africa and Botswana have verified their citizenships.