Tragedy Strikes as 12 Political Supporters Die in KZN Crash

Natalie Nyathi

Twelve individuals, believed to be supporters of various political parties, lost their lives in a devastating road accident that occurred late Monday night(yesterday) on the R34 near Vryheid in KwaZulu-Natal. The crash involved a bus carrying supporters returning from Youth Day rallies held in Durban.

Initial investigations suggest that a head-on collision preceded the truck striking the side of the bus. The death toll began at 10 but rose to 12 early this morning. Ten passengers are reported to have serious injuries, while 22 others sustained minor injuries, and 6 passengers emerged uninjured.

Both drivers survived the crash and were taken to a hospital for treatment. The road was closed to allow emergency services to assist the injured and manage the scene.

Siboniso Duma, the provincial MEC for transport and human settlements, confirmed that the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) is leading a thorough investigation, working alongside the Road Traffic Management Corporation and local law enforcement. Transport department spokesperson Ndabezihle Sibiya added, “The MEC has received an updated report indicating that 12 people have died from the horrific accident involving the bus and the truck. The truck struck the bus on the side, resulting in these fatalities.”

Motorists are urged to exercise patience as emergency crews continue their work on-site.