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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport bemoans the tragic passing of nine people in a bus accident that was ferrying African National Congress (ANC) supporters in Paulpietersburg under eDumbe Local Municipality in Zululand.
The bus accident is confirmed to have happened around 05h00 as the bus was traveling back from the ANC’s Mayihlome Rally, which was held in Durban at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
The accident happened about seven kilometers before reaching eDumbe town from R34.
The law enforcement team on the scene has so far confirmed nine fatalities.
However, they have not concluded the full recovery of the bus at the accident scene.
Scores of other occupants sustained injuries, with four being more critical. They have all been taken to a local hospital.
The cause of the accident is being investigated, and experts will be deployed to assist with the forensic investigation.
MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Sipho Hlomuka expressed his deepest condolences to the ANC and all affected families.
“After such a hugely successful rally in Moses Mabhida, we are now waking up to such painful news. We have, however, already deployed a team on the scene that is already at work with all law enforcement agencies. The investigation has already started, and we are already in touch with the bus owner. Our investigation is looking at the condition of the road, condition of the bus, weather during the times of the accident, and the condition of the driver,” said MEC Hlomuka.
“We wish to express our deepest condolences to all the affected families and speedy recovery to all those who sustained injuries,” said MEC Hlomuka.
MEC Hlomuka further encouraged road users, mainly public transport movers, to be extra cautions on the road.