The man who was allegedly driving the minibus taxi that burst into flames, resulting in the death of two school children and injuries to seven others in Limpopo, has been granted bail in the Nebo Magistrate’s Court.
Mogau Mosehla, 44, faces two counts of culpable homicide and contravention of the National Road Traffic Act relating to overloading and failure to produce an operating certificate.
This comes after the Toyota Quantum that Mosehla was driving burst into flames at about 3.15pm, along the Apel Cross Road via the Tswaing gravel road towards Nkotwokwane Village in Masemola on Wednesday, May 13.
Provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, said that at the time of the incident, the minibus taxi was carrying approximately 22 schoolchildren between the ages of seven and 10.
Ledwaba said the driver was en route from the school to drop the children at home when the vehicle caught fire.
Two Grade R learners from Mannyetha Primary School died.
“Two children died inside the burning vehicle, while seven others sustained injuries and were transported to hospital for medical treatment. 13 children escaped unharmed,” Ledwaba said.
The cause of the fire is unknown at this stage. Police investigation into the matter continues.
Limpopo MEC for Education Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya expressed sadness over the fatal accident.
“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,” Lerule-Ramakhanya said.
During his appearance, the court granted Mosehla R6,000 bail.
The matter has been postponed until August 21.
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Robin-Lee Francke
iol.co.za
