A devastating incident occurred in Limpopo when a Toyota Quantum minibus taxi caught fire, resulting in the death of two school children and injuries to seven others. The driver, Mogau Mosehla, 44, has been granted R6,000 bail in the Nebo Magistrate’s Court and faces two counts of culpable homicide and contravention of the National Road Traffic Act.
The incident happened on May 13, along the Apel Cross Road via the Tswaing gravel road towards Nkotwokwane Village in Masemola. According to provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the minibus taxi was carrying approximately 22 schoolchildren between the ages of seven and 10 when it burst into flames at about 3:15 pm.
Investigation and Aftermath
Ledwaba stated that 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 in the incident, while seven others sustained injuries and were transported to hospital for medical treatment. Thirteen children escaped unharmed.
The cause of the fire is unknown at this stage, and police investigation into the matter continues. Limpopo MEC for Education Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya expressed sadness over the fatal accident, saying, “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.”
Support and Next Steps
Lerule-Ramakhanya added that psycho-social support has been activated to start with the debriefing at the school. The matter has been postponed until August 21. For more information on road safety and the National Road Traffic Act, visit the Department of Transport website.
Here are some key points to note about the incident:
- Two children died in the fire
- Seven children were injured and taken to hospital
- Thirteen children escaped unharmed
- The driver has been granted R6,000 bail
- The matter has been postponed until August 21
