A long-distance Greyhound coach travelling on the R33 between eMkhondo and Amsterdam overturned on Monday, leaving five people dead and several others injured in one of Mpumalanga’s most serious road incidents this festive season.
According to the Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, the driver allegedly lost control of the bus, causing it to overturn. Five passengers died at the scene, while six others sustained serious injuries and 20 suffered minor injuries. The driver was among those injured. Paramedics from multiple ambulance services transported the wounded to a hospital in eMkhondo.
Department spokesperson Moeti Mmusi said investigators are still working to determine the exact cause, though wet and slippery road conditions are suspected to have contributed.
He also clarified that earlier reports claiming the bus carried more than 80 passengers were incorrect. Records show the bus departed Johannesburg with 65 travellers, but many disembarked along the route, leaving 31 occupants on board at the time of the crash.
Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, urged motorists to exercise heightened caution. “Every driver must prioritise their own safety and that of other road users. Let us save lives by being highly alert and obeying the rules. Long-distance drivers must rest sufficiently along the way,” he said.
He extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery. Investigations are ongoing.
Related Topics: