JOHANNESBURG, April 21 (ANA) – President Jacob Zuma expressed shock and sadness after 20 pupils died after a minibus taxi and truck collided head-on on Friday, on the R25 between Verena and Bronkhorstspruit, outside Pretoria.
“This is a sad and painful tragedy, taking place just when the country is coming to terms with a number of lives that have been lost during the Easter weekend. On behalf of government and all South Africans we extend our heartfelt condolences to families of the learners, relatives and friends. May their souls rest in peace,” Zuma said.
“We further call on law enforcement authorities to swiftly investigate the causes of this horrifying accident that has claimed so much young lives. We also call on all road users in the country to be more vigilant and adhere to the road rules and take safety precautions seriously to avoid unnecessary loss of life.”
Zuma wished all those who were injured, a speedy recovery.
Earlier, paramedics said that over 10 pupils were killed and several others injured on Friday afternoon. Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi rushed to the scene, his department said.
“It is with sadness to inform that, a minibus transporting learners was involved in a horrific accident, and about 20 learners died on the scene,” his department said.
“More information will be shared in due course.”
Meanwhile, ER24 spokesperson Russel Meiring said that around 13 children were killed and several others injured. He said when paramedics arrived on the scene they found the fire services already in attendance.
“Fire services had already extinguished the burning vehicle, which was found lying on its side. Paramedics assessed the scene and found that approximately 20 children had been inside the vehicle when it collided with the truck,” he said.
“Once the flames had been extinguished, paramedics found that approximately 13 children lying trapped inside the vehicle. Unfortunately, nothing could be done for the children and they were declared dead on the scene. Several other children were found on the scene. It is believed that these children had been pulled out of the taxi by members of the community.”
He said that paramedics assessed the children and found that seven children had sustained injuries raging from minor to critical. They were treated on the scene before they were taken to hospital for further medical treatment.
The cause of the collision was not known and would be investigated.
Meiring later confirmed that all 20 children died.
The African National Congress (ANC) also expressed sadness at the accidents and said that it was a sad day for South Africa.
“The African National Congress extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and calls on ANC structures and government to provide all the necessary assistance to them at this difficult time.”
– African News Agency (ANA)
