A rescue worker (2nd L) comforts a woman (L) at the scene of an accident, where a minibus carrying school students collided with a truck killing 12 pupils, in Vanderbijlpark on January 19, 2026. (Photo by John MKHIZE / AFP)
On Monday, at least 12 school pupils lost their lives in a tragic accident involving a scholar transport vehicle in Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng.
Vanderbijlpark scholar transport accident
The accident occurred on Fred Droste Road, also known as R553, at around 7am when the minibus carrying the children collided with a side tipper truck.
Provincial police spokesperson Mavela Masondo told reporters at the scene that a case of culpable homicide has been opened.
This comes after witnesses at the scene said that the minibus driver allegedly tried to overtake multiple vehicles when the accident occurred.
ALSO READ: Vanderbijlpark scholar transport crash kills 13 pupils
Driver allegedly operating without licence
According to Newzroom Afrika, preliminary reports indicate that both the driver of the scholar transport and the vehicle involved in the crash might have been unlicensed.
Gauteng Transport spokesperson, Lesiba Mpya, says that an investigation into these licensing concerns has been launched.
Mpya has also urged parents to make sure that the vehicles that transport their children to school are roadworthy and registered with the department of transport.
About the Author
