Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumulo House: A devastating head-on collision involving a truck and a bus on the R34 near Vryheid has claimed the lives of ten passengers, with dozens more injured, authorities confirmed in the early hours of the morning.
The incident occurred just after midnight, with the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) reporting that the truck struck the side of the bus following the initial collision. Preliminary reports suggest the bus may have been transporting political party supporters, though officials are still verifying the circumstances.
Casualties and Response
The impact of the crash resulted in the following:
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12 fatalities – Victims have been transported to the Vryheid Mortuary.
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10 seriously injured – Passengers are being treated at various local hospitals.
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22 slightly injured – Receiving medical attention.
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6 unharmed – Escaped physical injury.
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Both drivers survived – The truck and bus drivers were hospitalized.
Emergency services have closed the affected stretch of the R34 to facilitate rescue operations and provide critical care to survivors. As of 2 a.m., the scene remained active, with authorities urging motorists to exercise patience and avoid the area.
Investigation Underway
The Provincial Department of Transport and Human Settlements has pledged a thorough investigation in collaboration with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Issued by:
MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, KwaZulu-Natal
