The MEC for Transport and Community Safety in Limpopo, Violet Mathye, has confirmed that five people were killed in the bus accident on the N1-29 near Ingwe Lodge in the early hours of this morning.
The crash occurred at approximately 02:50 am when a Marcopolo bus travelling along the route reportedly lost control, veered off the roadway and came to rest in a ditch.
According to MEC Mathye, the accident claimed five lives including the driver and four passengers, one woman and three men.
Fourteen other passengers were injured, four them seriously while the other 10 are said to in critical condition. Another 18 suffered minor injuries. All injured passengers were transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
Names of the deceased as well those injured and their nationalities have not yet been released. The bus is said to have being travelling to Zimbabwe.
Authorities have closed the affected section of the N1-29 as emergency services, traffic officers and investigators continue working at the scene. Motorists have been advised to use alternative routes and to expect delays until the roadway is cleared and declared safe.
MEC Mathye conveyed her condolences to the bereaved families and wished those injured a speedy recovery.
“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.
The Department of Transport and Community Safety also extended its appreciation to emergency responders for their swift action and urged motorists to exercise caution, particularly during night-time travel.
Further updates are expected as investigations continue.
Limpopo MEC Confirms Five Dead in N1 Bus Crash Near Ingwe Lodge
