Johannesburg: A devastating bus accident near O.R. Tambo International Airport on Tuesday has claimed the lives of at least 16 people, according to South Africa’s transport ministry.
Ministry spokesperson Collen Msibi confirmed that 12 people died at the scene, while four others succumbed to their injuries in hospital. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
The bus was carrying passengers from Katlehong, a township east of Johannesburg, when the accident occurred. Emergency services arrived at the scene to find victims scattered across the road.
William Ntladi, spokesperson for Ekurhuleni’s emergency services, reported that 11 passengers were critically injured, while 24 others suffered moderate to serious injuries.
Local councillor Andile Mngwevu expressed deep sorrow over the incident, calling it a “disaster” and extending condolences to the affected families.
Transport Minister Barbra Creecy voiced her concerns over the crash, highlighting that it marks the third serious bus accident in South Africa within a week. She has instructed the Road Traffic Management Corporation to engage with bus operators to enhance passenger safety.
