Authorities probe involvement of second vehicle in R21 bus crash

Ekurhuleni Mayor, Dr Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, says they are investigating the possible involvement of another vehicle in the deadly R21 crash.

Thirteen people tragically lost their lives near OR Tambo International Airport yesterday, and 77 others, including the driver, were injured when a bus traveling from Katlehong to Kempton Park allegedly jackknifed and overturned several times.

Xhakaza believes that sudden braking from another vehicle may have distracted the bus driver, causing him to lose control.

“We can confirm the bus was roadworthy and had a valid certificate of fitness, dated February 10, 2025,” Xhakaza said.

The officials also confirmed that the driver held a Professional Driving Permit (PDP) and was licensed to drive the bus, which carried 89 passengers.

Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi, stated that a full investigation, which includes the SAPS and other relevant departments, will be launched.

Authorities are urging eyewitnesses to come forward and assist with the probe.

Over the past three days, at least 26 people have died on the country’s roads.

Seventeen of the fatalities happened in Ekurhuleni, while 19 schoolchildren were hospitalised in the metro this morning after their school bus collided with a truck near Wadeville.

The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU), which represents thousands of bus and truck drivers, has called on the government to take swift action to address road carnage.

SATAWU’s Amanda Tshemese says the Road Freight Sector continues to hire undocumented foreign nationals, which is problematic.

“We once again urge the government to work with us to ensure bus and logistics companies comply with labor laws to reduce accidents, especially in KwaZulu-Natal, where hundreds of trucks are transporting goods,” Tshemese said.

They also raised concerns about overworked long-distance drivers.

With the long Easter weekend approaching, concerns are growing about the safety of travelers. Tshemese believes road fatalities can be reduced if all sectors work together.

“Last year, nearly 230 people died on the country’s roads over the Easter long weekend. We can reduce the number to zero if we work together.”