Two grade learners from Mannyetha Primary School died after an overloaded minibus taxi caught fire on Wednesday, while seven others were injured.
Police said the accident happened at about 3.15pm on Wednesday afternoon.
Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the incident occurred on the Apel Cross Road via the Tswaing gravel road towards Nkotwokwane village.
“It is alleged that a Toyota Quantum minibus taxi was transporting plus/minus 22 school children between the ages of seven and 10 years, together with the driver, from school to their respective homes when the vehicle allegedly burst into flames while travelling on the gravel road.”
He said the exact cause of the fire remained unknown.
“Two children died at the scene inside the burning minibus and their identities are yet to be confirmed as investigations unfold.”
Ledwaba said seven other children sustained injuries and were taken to a local hospital for treatment, while 13 children escaped without injury.
“The driver, aged 44, was arrested for two counts of culpable homicide and contravention of the National Road Traffic Act relating to overloading and failure to produce an operating certificate.”
Ledwaba said police in Masemola, under the Sekhukhune District, had opened two counts of culpable homicide.
The driver is expected to appear in the Nebo Magistrate’s Court on Friday, May 15, 2026.
Limpopo provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe expressed shock and sadness following the incident and conveyed condolences to the bereaved families.
“We are deeply saddened by this heartbreaking incident involving young school children. We wish to extend our sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and wish those receiving medical treatment a speedy recovery. Police investigations will determine the cause of the incident,” said Hadebe.
Meanwhile, the Limpopo Department of Education confirmed the deceased learners were from Mannyetha Primary School in the Sekhukhune East Education District.
The department also confirmed the two deceased learners were in Grade R.
Limpopo MEC for Education Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya expressed deep sadness over the fatal accident.
Lerule-Ramakhanya extended condolences to the bereaved families, fellow learners, educators and all those affected by the tragedy.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families during this painful period of mourning. We also wish the injured learners a speedy and full recovery as they continue to receive medical care.”
“We have activated the psycho-social support to start with the debriefing at the school,” said Lerule-Ramakhanya.
The department said it was working closely with relevant authorities to establish the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
IOL News
Simon Majadibodu
iol.co.za
