The bus, which was carrying 60 Zimbabwean nationals, was en route to Stutterheim when it collided with a car carrying five occupants.
The impact was so severe that the car became trapped beneath the bus, forcing emergency responders to use the jaws of life to extract the deceased.Emergency services acted swiftly to assist the injured, who were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Many passengers reportedly sustained injuries of varying severity, while some required urgent medical attention.
Authorities have described the scene as chaotic, with eyewitnesses reporting the sheer force of the collision.Speaking to SABC News, Provincial Transport Department spokesperson, Makhaya Komisa, reminded drivers of the importance of road safety.
“The main cause of the crash will be subjected to further investigation by various law enforcement agencies. Motorists have been urged to obey the rules of the road,” Komisa said.
Transport and Community Safety MEC Xolile Nqatha expressed his condolences to the families of those killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
“I convey my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wish the injured passengers a speedy recovery. I urge all motorists to obey the rules of the road,” the MEC said.